When Can Kentucky Landlords Raise Rent for Pass-Through Costs?

Renters in Kentucky may sometimes face rent increases due to “pass-through costs” — expenses that property owners are allowed to recover from tenants. If you’re worried about a sudden rent hike, it's important to understand what pass-through costs are, when landlords can raise rent, and what rights and protections you have under Kentucky law.

Understanding Pass-Through Costs in Kentucky

Pass-through costs refer to certain building or property expenses that landlords may legally shift to tenants. While some cities and states with rent control limit these increases, Kentucky has no statewide rent control or rent stabilization laws. This means landlords in Kentucky generally have wide latitude to set and raise rents, including for some pass-through costs—unless restricted by your lease agreement.

Common Pass-Through Costs

• Increased property taxes
• Utility cost changes (if not specified as fixed in your lease)
• Repairs and improvements beyond normal maintenance (if permitted by lease)
• Insurance increases

If your lease mentions these costs can be passed through, your landlord may raise your rent accordingly.

Rules for Raising Rent in Kentucky

In most parts of Kentucky, there is no limit on how much a landlord can raise the rent or how often, unless the lease says otherwise. However, your landlord must follow legal notice requirements and terms set by the lease or by Kentucky’s landlord-tenant law.

Required Notice for Rent Increases

• Month-to-month leases: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent^[1].
• Fixed-term leases (e.g., 1-year): Rent cannot be increased during the lease period unless the lease specifically allows it.

Before any rent increase (including for pass-through costs), landlords are required to provide written notice. If you receive less than 30 days’ notice, the increase isn’t legally enforceable for the next rent period.

Key Legislation and Who Oversees Rent Issues

The main law covering tenant rights in Kentucky is the Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) (KRS Chapter 383). However, this act only applies automatically in cities or counties that have formally adopted it. Many Kentucky jurisdictions operate without these protections.

There is no state-level board or tribunal for residential tenancy disputes. Instead, these matters are generally handled in your local Kentucky District Court.

Official Forms Renters Might Use

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (KRS 383.695):
  If a landlord raises your rent and you wish to move out, you can give your own written 30-day notice (month-to-month tenants). There is no standardized state form, but you must put your intent in writing referencing your lease and the date you intend to leave.
  Example: You receive a rent increase notice and decide to move. Write a dated letter to your landlord stating you are giving 30 days’ notice to terminate the lease, as allowed by KRS 383.695. Learn more about service of notice from the Kentucky District Court.

What Renters Should Do If Faced With a Rent Increase

Pass-through cost increases should be communicated clearly, with proper notice, and follow your lease terms. If you believe your landlord is raising rent unfairly or without notice:

• Review your lease for any terms about pass-through cost increases
• Check if you received the required written notice
• Save all documentation and communications
• Contact your local housing office, legal aid, or the District Court if you need to dispute the increase

FAQ: Kentucky Renters and Pass-Through Costs

1. Can my landlord immediately raise my rent for pass-through costs?
   No. For month-to-month leases, you must receive 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect.
2. Does my landlord need to prove the extra costs?
   There is no legal requirement in Kentucky for landlords to demonstrate the specific amounts of pass-through costs, unless your lease requires it. It’s a good idea to request documentation if you have concerns.
3. What if my lease doesn’t mention pass-through costs?
   If your lease is silent on this issue, most pass-through increases cannot be added during a fixed-term lease period. For renewals or month-to-month leases, landlords can propose new terms including these costs.
4. Which government office handles rent disputes in Kentucky?
   Residential rent disputes are usually resolved in your local District Court, as there is no statewide tenant tribunal.
5. What should I do if I feel the rent increase is unfair?
   Speak with your landlord first. If unresolved, contact your local legal aid office or prepare to file a case in district court.

Summary: What Kentucky Renters Should Remember

• There is no rent control in Kentucky, and landlords can usually raise rent for pass-through costs if the lease allows.
• Landlords must give 30 days’ written notice for increases on month-to-month leases.
• Disputes are handled by local district courts—not a state tribunal.

Understanding your lease and knowing your notice rights are key to staying protected if rent increases for pass-through costs happen.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky District Court – Handles residential rent disputes.
• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KRS Chapter 383) – Read the full tenancy law.
• Kentucky Legal Aid – Free help for renters facing rent increases or disputes.
• Local city or county housing office – Search for your jurisdiction’s housing or code enforcement department.

---

1. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA), KRS Chapter 383

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations