Montana Rent Control: Past Campaigns and Current Laws

Renters in Montana may wonder if there have ever been rent control policies to prevent sharp rent increases. While many states—especially California and New York—have implemented these protections, Montana’s experience with rent control is unique. This article explains the history of rent control campaigns in Montana, what the current laws say about rent increases, and provides guidance on where to get official support or submit complaints.

Has Montana Ever Had Rent Control?

Montana currently does not have a statewide rent control or rent stabilization law. Throughout its history, formal rent control campaigns have been limited and have not resulted in any enacted statewide legislation. While some residents and advocacy groups have periodically raised the issue, the State Legislature has not passed laws to regulate how much landlords can increase rent.^[1]

Understanding Rent Control Campaigns

Rent control campaigns are efforts—sometimes by tenant advocates, sometimes by city leaders—to cap rent increases and provide greater stability for renters. In Montana, these campaigns have included:

• Advocacy from local tenant organizations calling for rent increase limits
• Public forums during times of rapid rent escalation (for example, in certain university towns)
• Petitions urging lawmakers to consider capping rent or passing tenant protections

These campaigns have typically focused awareness on renter challenges but have not — so far — led to statewide rent control policies.

Current Rent Increase Laws in Montana

According to the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, there is no law limiting the amount a landlord can increase the rent, provided they follow proper notice requirements.^[2]

• Month-to-month rental agreements: Landlords must give at least 30 days’ written notice before raising rent.
• Fixed-term leases: Rent usually cannot be changed during the lease unless the contract specifically allows for adjustments.

If you receive a rent increase, make sure the landlord provides written notice with the correct timeframe. If notice requirements are not met, you may be able to challenge the increase.

Montana Landlord-Tenant Forms for Renters

• 30-Day Notice to Vacate (Montana Department of Justice – Office of Consumer Protection):
  Official Notice Forms. Use this if you decide to move out after receiving a notice of rent increase. Example: If your landlord increases your rent and you don’t agree, you can provide this form as a written notice to terminate your tenancy.
• Complaint Form for Landlord-Tenant Issues:
  Montana Consumer Complaint Form. Submit this to the Montana Department of Justice if your landlord is not following notice requirements or if you have other tenancy problems.

Where Can Montana Renters Turn With Concerns?

The official body handling landlord-tenant disputes in Montana is the Montana Department of Justice – Office of Consumer Protection. This office provides guidance, investigates complaints, and helps renters understand their rights under current law.

Legislation Protecting Montana Renters

Renter rights and landlord obligations in Montana are governed by the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Montana Code Annotated Title 70, Chapter 24).^[2]

• Full Text of the Landlord and Tenant Act

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there any rent control in Montana?
   No. Montana does not have rent control laws limiting how much a landlord can raise the rent, but notice requirements must be followed.
2. How much notice does a landlord need to give for a rent increase?
   For month-to-month rentals, landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
3. Can a landlord increase the rent during a fixed-term lease?
   Not unless your lease specifically allows it. Otherwise, rent can only be changed at lease renewal.
4. What should I do if my landlord raises my rent without proper notice?
   Gather documentation and contact the Montana Department of Justice’s Office of Consumer Protection. You may also submit a written complaint.
5. Which government office handles tenant-landlord issues in Montana?
   The Montana Department of Justice – Office of Consumer Protection oversees these issues and offers help.

Key Takeaways

• Montana doesn’t have statewide rent control, but written notice is required for any rent increase.
• The Montana Department of Justice – Office of Consumer Protection is the main agency for renter complaints and support.
• Always check your lease and the official Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for up-to-date rules.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montana Department of Justice – Landlord/Tenant Resources
• File a Consumer Complaint (Landlord/Tenant)
• For legal questions, consider contacting the Montana Legal Services Association
• Review the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for complete information

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1. See historic legislative records: Montana Legislature Bills and Laws Database
2. Montana Code Annotated, Title 70, Chapter 24 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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