Kentucky Lease Renewal Laws: Can Landlords Refuse?

If you're renting a home or apartment in Kentucky, it's natural to wonder what happens as your lease comes to an end. One big concern is whether your landlord can legally refuse to renew your lease. Understanding your rights and the rules around lease renewal in Kentucky can help you plan your next steps and protect yourself from unexpected housing issues like sudden non-renewal or eviction.

When Can a Landlord Refuse to Renew Your Lease in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, most leases are governed by the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383), commonly called the URLTA. Not all counties have adopted URLTA—so laws may differ depending on where you live. Check with your local city or county housing agency for clarity. Generally, in non-URLTA areas, Kentucky follows statewide landlord-tenant statutes.

Landlords can refuse to renew a lease when it expires, as long as they follow proper notice requirements and do not act in retaliation or discrimination.

Common Lawful Reasons for Nonrenewal

• End of fixed-term lease: Landlords aren’t required to renew when the lease expires.
• Good faith business reasons (property sale, family move-in, major renovations).
• Repeated lease violations by the tenant.

Unlawful Reasons for Nonrenewal

• Discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status (protected under the Fair Housing Act).
• Retaliation for requesting repairs or reporting code violations.

For both URLTA and non-URLTA areas, landlords must provide written notice of nonrenewal within set timelines. The required notice period typically matches your rental term (e.g., 30 days for month-to-month tenancies). For more, see the Kentucky Revised Statutes § 383.695.

Notice Requirements: How Much Time Do Landlords Need to Give?

If your lease is expiring and your landlord decides not to renew, they must notify you in writing. The amount of notice depends on your rental agreement:

• Fixed-term leases: Notice is required if your lease says so; otherwise, there may be no strict requirement, but advance notice is common.
• Month-to-month leases: At least 30 days’ written notice before the next rent is due.
  See KRS 383.695(2).

If the landlord fails to provide the proper notice, they may have to allow you to remain until notice is correctly given.

Official Notice Forms

• 30-Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy (no official statewide number):
  Used by landlords to inform a tenant of nonrenewal on a month-to-month lease. For example, if your landlord wants you to move out at the end of June, they must give you written notice by the end of May. While there is no single official form, landlords should always provide written notice. You can find template language and requirements from the Kentucky Equal Justice Center.

What Should You Do if You Receive a Nonrenewal Notice?

Stay calm and read your notice carefully. Double-check:

• The date your lease ends
• The amount of notice provided
• Any reasons stated for nonrenewal

If you believe the nonrenewal is for an illegal reason (such as retaliation or discrimination), you have the right to file a complaint.

How to Respond

• Contact your landlord to clarify any unclear points.
• Document all communications in writing.
• Begin searching for alternate housing if necessary.
• If needed, seek free legal help or file a complaint (see resources below).

Tribunal and Legal Support in Kentucky

Kentucky does not have a state-wide housing tribunal. Residential landlord-tenant disputes are generally handled through local District Courts. Tenants can learn more or seek help from their county court or check the Kentucky District Court System for specific guidance.

FAQ: Lease Nonrenewal in Kentucky

1. Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease without giving a reason?
   Yes, as long as the landlord is not acting out of discrimination or retaliation and gives the legally required notice.
2. How much notice must my landlord give before nonrenewal?
   Usually at least 30 days for month-to-month leases, but always check your lease for specific requirements.
3. Is nonrenewal the same as eviction in Kentucky?
   No. Nonrenewal means your lease ends at the normal time; eviction requires legal cause and a court process.
4. What can I do if I think the nonrenewal is illegal?
   You may file a complaint with Kentucky's Fair Housing enforcement or seek legal help via the resources below.
5. What agency oversees tenant-landlord issues?
   The Kentucky Housing Corporation and local District Courts oversee rental issues. For disputes, contact your county District Court.

Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters

• Landlords can refuse to renew a lease but must not discriminate or retaliate.
• Written notice is required, usually 30 days for month-to-month tenants.
• If you believe your rights are violated, seek help and know you may file a complaint.

Understanding your rights helps you prepare and respond effectively to any nonrenewal situation.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky District Courts – For local housing disputes and official filings.
• Kentucky Housing Corporation – Renters support and legal resources statewide.
• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights – To report housing discrimination or retaliation.
• Sample Lease Termination Notices – Practical examples for renters and landlords.
• HUD Fair Housing – Federal protections and complaint info.

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1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS 383)
2. KRS 383.695 – Notice of Termination
3. Kentucky District Court System
4. Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
5. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Fair Housing

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