West Virginia does not have statewide rent control, meaning landlords can generally raise rent by any amount, as long as they follow proper legal procedures and do not engage in discrimination or retaliation against tenants. Understanding the rules around rent increases is essential for both tenants and landlords to avoid disputes and ensure compliance with state law.
Key Points for Tenants
No Rent Control or Cap
There is no statutory limit on how much a landlord can increase rent in West Virginia. Landlords are free to set new rental prices at the end of a lease term or for month-to-month tenancies, provided they give proper notice and do not discriminate.
Notice Requirements
Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide at least 30 days’ written notice before increasing rent. This gives tenants time to decide whether to accept the new rate or seek alternative housing.
Fixed-Term Leases: Rent cannot be increased during the term of a fixed lease unless the lease specifically allows it. Any increase must wait until the lease expires or is renewed.
Written Notice
Landlords are required to deliver a written notice of any rent increase, specifying the new rent amount and the date it takes effect. This notice must be clear and provided with sufficient advance time as outlined above.
Legal Restrictions on Rent Increases
Discrimination: Rent increases cannot be used to discriminate against tenants based on race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability. Such actions are prohibited under the federal Fair Housing Act and state law.
Retaliation: It is illegal for a landlord to raise rent in retaliation for a tenant exercising their legal rights, such as reporting health or safety violations or joining a tenant union.
Habitability: If a landlord fails to maintain the property in safe and habitable condition, any rent increase may be challenged as unlawful.
Lease Renewal and Negotiation
At the end of a lease, landlords can propose a new rental amount for the renewal period. Tenants have the right to negotiate or decline the new terms and seek other housing if the increase is unacceptable.
Local Ordinances
While state law does not impose rent control, some localities may have additional rules or requirements. Both landlords and tenants should check with local authorities for any supplemental regulations that may apply in their area.
Summary Table: Rent Increase Rules in West Virginia (2025)
| Lease Type | Notice Required | Rent Increase Limit | When Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Month-to-month | 30 days | No limit | Any time with notice |
| Fixed-term (1 year+) | End of lease | No limit | Only at renewal, unless lease allows |
| During lease term | N/A | Not allowed | Only if lease permits |
Practical Tips for Tenants
Always request written notice of any rent increase and keep a copy for your records.
Review your lease agreement to understand when and how rent can be increased.
If you believe a rent increase is discriminatory or retaliatory, seek legal advice or contact a tenant rights organization.
Negotiate with your landlord if the increase is unaffordable, or consider signing a longer-term lease to lock in your rate.
Conclusion
In 2025, West Virginia remains a landlord-friendly state with no rent control or cap on increases. However, landlords must provide proper notice—typically 30 days for month-to-month leases—and cannot raise rent during a fixed-term lease unless the agreement allows it. Rent increases must not be discriminatory or retaliatory. Tenants should stay informed, review their lease terms, and be proactive in communicating with landlords about any rent changes.
Sources
[1] https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-west-virginia
[2] https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-west-virginia
[3] https://www.hemlane.com/resources/west-virginia-rent-control-laws/
[4] https://www.boloforms.com/signature/contracts/real-estate/notice-of-rent-increase/west-virginia/
[5] https://www.turbotenant.com/rental-lease-agreement/west-virginia/laws/
