Rent Increase Letter: Requirements and Template
May 28, 2026A rent increase letter formally notifies a tenant of a new rent amount and when it takes effect. Getting the notice period right matters — an improperly noticed rent increase can be unenforceable until you send a corrected notice, effectively delaying the increase.
How much notice do you need to give?
For month-to-month tenancies, many states require 30 days' notice for a rent increase, though some states and cities require more (60 or 90 days is common for larger increases in some jurisdictions), and local rent control ordinances can impose additional limits on both notice and amount. For a fixed-term lease, rent generally can't be increased mid-term unless the lease specifically allows it (such as a pre-scheduled rent escalation).
What to include
A rent increase letter should state:
- • Tenant name(s) and property address
- • Current rent amount
- • New rent amount
- • The date the new rent takes effect
- • A reminder of the tenant's option to decline (i.e., end the tenancy) if they choose not to accept the new rent, where applicable
Sample rent increase letter
NOTICE OF RENT INCREASE Date: [DATE] To: [TENANT NAME(S)] Property: [PROPERTY ADDRESS, UNIT NUMBER] This letter is to notify you that your monthly rent will increase from $[CURRENT RENT] to $[NEW RENT], effective [EFFECTIVE DATE]. This notice is being provided in accordance with [STATE] law and/or the terms of your lease, which require at least [NUMBER] days' notice of a rent increase. If you have any questions, please contact us at your earliest convenience. [LANDLORD/MANAGER NAME] [CONTACT INFORMATION]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I increase rent by any amount I want?
In most states without rent control, yes — there's no statewide cap on the percentage increase, though local rent control ordinances in some cities do cap it. Check both your state and your specific city or county before setting a new amount.
Can I raise rent in the middle of a fixed-term lease?
Generally no, unless the lease itself includes a rent escalation clause with pre-agreed increases and dates. Otherwise, rent for a fixed-term lease is locked until that term ends or renews.
What if the tenant doesn't respond to the rent increase notice?
If the tenant continues paying the new, increased rent after the effective date, that's typically treated as acceptance. If they continue paying only the old rent, treat it as a rent shortfall under your normal late-rent process, and consult your state's rules on how to proceed.