Arkansas rent increase laws in 2025 continue to be among the most landlord-friendly in the United States, with no statewide rent control or caps on how much landlords can raise rent. Here’s what tenants should know:
Key Points for Arkansas Tenants
- No Rent Control or Cap:Â Arkansas law does not limit how much a landlord can increase rent. Landlords can raise rent by any amount, provided they follow notice requirements and do not act for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons.
- Notice Requirements:
- Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect.
- Week-to-Week Leases: Landlords must give at least 7 days’ notice before increasing rent.
- Fixed-Term Leases:Â Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows it. Any increase must occur at lease renewal.
- Written Notice:Â Rent increases must be communicated in writing, specifying the new rent amount and the effective date.
- Discrimination and Retaliation Prohibited: Landlords cannot increase rent based on a tenant’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or familial status. Retaliatory rent increases (such as after a tenant complains about unsafe conditions) are also illegal.
- Lease Agreement Rules:Â Any rent increase must comply with the terms of the lease. If the lease does not mention rent increases, landlords must still provide proper notice as required by law.
Tenant Rights and Protections
- Habitability:Â Landlords must maintain safe and livable conditions, including access to clean water, working plumbing, and secure structures.
- Security Deposits:Â Landlords must return security deposits within 60 days after move-out, minus any lawful deductions, and provide an itemized list of damages.
- Fair Housing:Â Tenants are protected under federal and state fair housing laws from discrimination in all rental matters, including rent increases.
What Can Tenants Do If Facing an Unjust Increase?
- Negotiate:Â Tenants can try to negotiate with their landlord if they believe a rent increase is unfair.
- Seek Legal Advice:Â If a rent increase is discriminatory, retaliatory, or violates the lease or state law, tenants can consult a legal professional or file a complaint with the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission or HUD.
- Review Lease Carefully:Â Always check the lease for specific terms about rent increases and notice periods.
Table
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Rent Increase Cap | Additional Protections |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 30 days | None | No discrimination/retaliation |
| Week-to-Week | 7 days | None | No discrimination/retaliation |
| Fixed-Term | At renewal | None (if allowed) | No increase during lease unless stated |
Arkansas tenants should stay informed about their lease terms and rights, and always ensure any rent increase is lawful and properly communicated.
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.weekendermanagement.com/arkansas-rent-increase-law/
[4] https://www.littlerockproperty.management/blog/rent-increase-laws-in-little-rock-arkansas
[5] https://thompsonandhowle.com/arkansas-landlord-tenant-laws-rental-rights-2025/
