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

In Nebraska, renters often wonder when—and by how much—their landlord can increase rent, especially when it comes to additional or "pass-through" costs. While Nebraska does not have statewide rent control, there are still important rules and legal protections renters should know about. This guide will help you understand how rent increases work in Nebraska, what counts as a pass-through cost, and your rights if you receive a notice of higher rent.

What Are Pass-Through Costs?

Pass-through costs are expenses a landlord may choose to pass directly to renters, in addition to base rent. This might include rising property taxes, maintenance fees, or utility increases. In states with rent control, these charges are heavily regulated. However, in Nebraska, landlords generally have more freedom, but there are still notice requirements and other legal constraints.

Common Pass-Through Costs

• Utility charges (water, heat, trash removal)
• Property tax increases
• Building maintenance or improvements (if specified in your lease)
• Other fees allowed by your rental agreement

All pass-through charges must be outlined in your lease agreement. If your lease doesn't mention these costs, it may not be legal for your landlord to add them.

Nebraska Rent Increase Rules

Nebraska law does not limit how much a landlord can raise your rent if you’re renting on a month-to-month basis or when renewing a lease. However, landlords must follow proper notice rules and cannot increase rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease unless you agree.

• For month-to-month renters: Landlords must provide written notice at least 30 days before the rent increase takes effect.
• For fixed-term leases (for example, a 12-month lease): Rent generally cannot be raised until the end of the term, unless the lease allows it.

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

• Notice must be in writing.
• The notice should clearly state the new rent amount and when it will begin.
• Your landlord can personally deliver the notice, mail it, or deliver it by any method outlined in your lease.

If you think your landlord is not following the law, you have the right to ask for clarification or seek help. The Nebraska court system’s Landlord-Tenant Program offers mediation and resources for disputes.

Relevant Forms for Nebraska Renters

While Nebraska does not require a specific statewide form for rent increase notices, written communication is required. Below are important forms and examples you might encounter:

• 30-Day Notice of Rent Increase (Sample Letter):
  Used by landlords to formally tell a month-to-month tenant about a rent increase.
  Example: Your landlord gives you written notice in July that your rent will go up starting in August.
  See an example template from the Nebraska Judicial Branch (Notice to Terminate Tenancy - PDF)
• Rental Agreement / Lease:
  This document outlines the terms, rental amount, and any allowed pass-through costs. Review it to check what charges your landlord can add.

Official forms and information can be found through the Nebraska Judicial Branch landlord-tenant self-help page.

Can You Challenge a Rent Hike for Pass-Through Costs?

If you receive a rent increase you believe is unfair or not allowed by your lease, you have options:

• Review your lease to see if the landlord can charge the pass-through cost.
• Ask your landlord for a breakdown of the increase, especially if the new amount includes unclear fees.
• Seek free mediation through the Nebraska court system or file a complaint if necessary.

Who Oversees Renter Disputes in Nebraska?

Rental disputes, including complaints about unlawful rent increases or pass-through charges, are generally handled through the Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Program. This program offers mediation, forms, and legal process support. Eviction cases and legal enforcement also occur through County Courts.

The main state law governing tenant and landlord rights is the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

FAQ: Nebraska Pass-Through Costs and Rent Increases

1. Can my landlord increase rent at any time in Nebraska?
   Not if you are in a fixed-term lease—rent can only be raised at renewal or if the lease allows. For month-to-month renters, a 30-day written notice is required.
2. What if my lease doesn't mention pass-through costs?
   If pass-through charges (like utilities or special fees) are not in your lease, your landlord usually cannot add them during the term of your agreement.
3. Who do I contact if I have a dispute about my rent increase?
   You can seek help through the Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Program or get free legal help from local tenant advocacy organizations.
4. What should a rent increase notice include?
   The notice must be in writing, state the new rent amount, and give the date when the new rent begins. It must be provided at least 30 days before taking effect for month-to-month rentals.

Key Takeaways for Nebraska Renters

• Nebraska does not have statewide rent control, so landlords can raise rent with proper notice.
• Pass-through costs can only be added if they are clearly listed in your lease agreement.
• Always receive a 30-day written notice for rent increases if you rent month-to-month.
• Disputes can be resolved with landlord-tenant mediation through the courts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Judicial Branch Landlord-Tenant Program (Mediation and Dispute Resolution)
• Nebraska Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center (Official Forms & Guidance)
• Nebraska Legal Aid (Free Legal Help for Renters)
• Contact your local County Court for eviction and tenancy enforcement processes.

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¹ For full legal details, see: Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

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