Learn how much landlords can raise rent in California and New York, plus key tenant rights.

Los Angeles: No one likes to hear their rent is going up, especially after a disaster. After the wildfires in January, many Californians are struggling to find new homes.
With so many people displaced, the rental market is tight. It’s not just low inventory; some landlords are accused of price gouging, which is a big deal.
Rent prices are skyrocketing across the country, and it feels like some landlords are taking advantage of the situation. So, what’s the deal with these rent hikes?
First off, landlords can’t just raise your rent whenever they want. They have to wait until your lease is up. In California, there are laws that limit how much they can increase rent each year.
For example, the California Tenant Protection Act says landlords can’t raise rent more than 10% or 5% plus the cost of living increase, whichever is lower. This is to prevent them from exploiting situations like the wildfires.
State Attorney General Rob Bonta has warned landlords against price gouging, reminding them it’s illegal and can lead to serious penalties.
Now, if you’re in New York, the rules are a bit different. If your place is rent-stabilized, there are strict limits on how much rent can go up. But if it’s not, landlords have more freedom to raise the rent, especially if they give you proper notice.
In Texas, it’s a whole different ballgame. There are no statewide limits on rent increases, so landlords can raise the rent as they please once your lease is up. However, local laws can come into play during emergencies.
When it comes to notice, most states require at least 30 days before a rent increase takes effect. In California, if the increase is over 10%, you get 60 days’ notice.
So, if you’re worried about a rent increase, it’s good to know your rights. If you think your landlord is being unfair, keep records of all communications and consider talking to them first before taking any drastic steps.
Remember, most landlords are just trying to do the right thing, and sometimes mistakes happen. It’s all about finding a balance and protecting yourself while keeping the lines of communication open.