Arkansas remains one of the most landlord-friendly states in the US, with minimal restrictions on how and when landlords can raise rent. Here’s what tenants need to know for 2025:
No Rent Control or Cap on Increases
- No Statewide Rent Control: Arkansas has no laws limiting how much a landlord can raise the rent. There are no caps or maximum percentages for rent increases, and local governments are also prohibited from enacting their own rent control ordinances.
- Market-Driven Increases: Landlords can raise rent by any amount they choose when a lease ends or with proper notice in a month-to-month arrangement.
Notice Requirements
- Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect. This notice must clearly state the new rent amount and the date it becomes effective.
- Week-to-Week Leases: A minimum of 7 days’ written notice is required.
- Fixed-Term Leases: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease itself allows for it. Any increase typically takes effect only when the lease is renewed or converted to month-to-month.
How Often Can Rent Be Raised?
- Frequency: There is no state law limiting how often rent can be increased, but standard practice is to raise rent at the end of a lease term, usually annually. Some leases may specify a minimum period (often six months) between increases for month-to-month tenants.
- Lease Agreement Terms: Always check your lease for any clauses about rent increases; these may set additional requirements or restrictions.
Legal Protections for Tenants
- Written Notice Required: All rent increases must be provided in writing. Verbal notice is not legally valid.
- No Discrimination or Retaliation: Landlords cannot raise rent for discriminatory reasons (race, religion, sex, etc.) or in retaliation for tenants exercising legal rights, such as reporting code violations.
- Disputing Illegal Increases: If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory, retaliatory, or violates your lease, you can seek legal counsel or file a complaint.
Table
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Cap on Increase | Frequency Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 30 days | None | Typically 6-12 months |
| Week-to-Week | 7 days | None | Not specified |
| Fixed-Term | Lease governs | None | At renewal only |
What Should Tenants Do?
- Review Your Lease: Understand any terms about rent increases or renewal procedures.
- Document Communications: Keep copies of all written notices and correspondence with your landlord.
- Know Your Rights: If you suspect a rent increase is illegal, contact a tenant rights organization or attorney.
Arkansas tenants should be aware there are no limits on rent increases, but landlords must provide proper written notice and cannot act in a discriminatory or retaliatory manner. Always review your lease and be prepared for possible increases when your lease term ends.
Sources
[1] https://arkansasag.gov/divisions/public-protection/homes/landlord-and-tenant-rights/
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-arkansas
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/arkansas-rent-control-laws/
[4] https://www.turbotenant.com/rental-lease-agreement/arkansas/laws/
[5] https://www.weekendermanagement.com/arkansas-rent-increase-law/