- Alabama does not have statewide rent control laws. Landlords can raise rent by any amount they choose, as long as they follow notice requirements and do not act in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner.
- Local governments are prohibited from enacting their own rent control ordinances, so this rule applies across the entire state.
Notice Requirements
- Month-to-Month Tenants: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
- Week-to-Week Tenants: A 7-day notice is required.
- Fixed-Term Leases (e.g., 1-year lease): Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows it. Otherwise, any increase can only take effect at renewal, with notice typically given 30 days before the lease ends.
How Much Can Rent Be Increased?
- There is no legal limit to how much a landlord can raise rent in Alabama. Increases of any amount are allowed, provided proper notice is given.
- However, increases cannot be used to discriminate (based on race, religion, sex, etc.) or as retaliation against tenants for exercising their legal rights (such as reporting code violations).
Frequency of Rent Increases
- There is no restriction on how often rent can be increased, but increases are generally tied to the lease renewal period or, for month-to-month leases, after the required notice period.
Rent Increase Notification
A rent increase notice must:
- Be in writing
- State the new rent amount and the date it takes effect
- Be delivered at least 30 days in advance for month-to-month tenants (or 7 days for week-to-week)
What Tenants Can Do
- Review your lease: Some leases may include clauses about rent increases or renewal terms.
- Compare with market rates: While there’s no cap, tenants can negotiate or check if the increase is in line with local market trends.
- Seek legal help: If you suspect a rent increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, you can contact legal aid or fair housing organizations.
Table: Alabama Rent Increase Rules (2025)
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Limit on Amount? | When Can Rent Be Raised? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 30 days written notice | No | After notice period |
| Week-to-Week | 7 days written notice | No | After notice period |
| Fixed-Term (e.g., 1 year) | At lease renewal (usually 30 days before) | No | Only at end of lease unless lease allows mid-term increases |
Alabama remains a landlord-friendly state in 2025. Landlords can raise rent by any amount with proper notice, but cannot do so for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons. Tenants should stay informed, review their lease agreements, and be aware of their rights regarding rent increases.
Sources
[1] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-alabama
[2] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/alabama-rent-control-laws/
[3] https://www.doorloop.com/laws/alabama-landlord-tenant-rights
[4] https://www.steadily.com/blog/alabama-rental-lease-agreement-laws-regulations
[5] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-alabama