- Kentucky does not have statewide or local rent control laws. This means there is no legal limit or cap on how much a landlord can increase the rent, regardless of the percentage or dollar amount.
- Landlords are free to set new rent amounts based on market conditions, property improvements, or other factors, as long as they follow the proper notice procedures and do not discriminate.
Notice Requirements
- Landlords must provide tenants with at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase takes effect, whether the tenancy is month-to-month or a year-long lease.
- For fixed-term leases (such as a one-year lease), rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows for it.
- For month-to-month leases, a 30-day written notice is standard and required before the new rent amount is due.
How and When Rent Can Be Increased
| Lease Type | When Rent Can Be Increased | Notice Required |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed-term (e.g., 1 year) | Only at lease renewal, unless lease allows mid-term increases | 30 days or as specified in lease |
| Month-to-month | At any time, with proper notice | 30 days written notice |
- Rent increases must be communicated in writing, stating the new rent amount and the date the increase takes effect.
- The notice should be clear, professional, and provided in advance, giving tenants time to plan, negotiate, or decide whether to renew or move out.
Anti-Discrimination and Retaliation Protections
- Rent increases must not be discriminatory (based on race, gender, family status, disability, etc.) or retaliatory (in response to a tenant exercising their legal rights).
- The Federal Fair Housing Act and Kentucky law prohibit such practices.
Tenant Options and Recourse
- Tenants may attempt to negotiate with the landlord if the increase seems excessive, especially by referencing local market rates or their positive rental history.
- If a tenant refuses to pay the increased rent, the landlord may issue a lease termination notice, but must follow legal eviction procedures.
- Tenants can file complaints with the Kentucky Attorney General if they believe the increase is unlawful or retaliatory.
- Organizing with other tenants or seeking legal advice are options if facing dramatic or unfair rent hikes.
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Review your lease agreement for any clauses about rent adjustments.
- Expect at least 30 days’ written notice before any rent increase.
- Rent cannot be raised during a fixed-term lease unless the lease explicitly allows it.
- There is no legal cap on rent increases in Kentucky.
- Increases must not be discriminatory or retaliatory.
- Open communication and negotiation with your landlord are encouraged if you have concerns about a rent increase.
Understanding these rules helps Kentucky tenants plan for potential rent changes and assert their rights if needed.
Sources
[1] https://mylolowcountry.com/usa-laws/kentucky-rent-increase-laws-2025-what-tenants-should-know/
[2] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/kentucky-rent-control-laws/
[3] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/overview-landlord-tenant-laws-kentucky.html
[4] https://www.turbotenant.com/rental-lease-agreement/kentucky/laws/
[5] https://www.leaserunner.com/laws/kentucky-rent-laws
