As of 2025, Utah remains a landlord-friendly state with no rent control or limits on how much or how often landlords can raise rent. However, there are important notice requirements and tenant protections that every renter should understand.
No Rent Control or Caps
- No Statewide Rent Control: Utah law does not limit the amount or frequency of rent increases. Landlords can raise rent by any amount once a lease term ends or in accordance with the rental agreement.
- Local Governments Restricted: Cities and counties in Utah are prohibited from enacting their own rent control ordinances unless specifically authorized by the state legislature.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
- Month-to-Month Leases: Landlords must provide at least 15 days’ written notice before increasing rent.
- Fixed-Term Leases: Rent cannot be increased during the lease term unless the lease specifically allows it. For renewal, landlords must typically provide 30 to 60 days’ notice before the new lease term begins, depending on the lease agreement.
- 2025 Update: A new law (H.B. 182) requires landlords to provide 60 days’ written notice before a rent increase takes effect, unless a different notice period is specified in the lease. This is a significant update, giving tenants more time to prepare for rent changes.
Legal and Fairness Protections
- No Retaliation or Discrimination: Landlords cannot increase rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights (such as making a complaint) or for discriminatory reasons. Increases based on race, religion, family status, disability, or other protected characteristics are illegal.
- Lease Terms Govern: Any rent increase must comply with the existing lease agreement. If the lease is silent on mid-term increases, the landlord must wait until the lease expires.
How Rent Increases Are Communicated
- Written Notice Required: All rent increases must be communicated in writing, clearly stating the new rent amount and the date it will take effect.
- Documentation: Tenants should keep a copy of all written notices and review their lease for any additional requirements.
What Tenants Can Do
- Review Your Lease: Understand the terms about rent increases and notice periods.
- Seek Legal Help if Needed: If you believe a rent increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, contact Utah Legal Services or a tenant advocacy group.
- Plan Ahead: With the new 60-day notice rule, tenants have more time to budget or seek alternative housing if needed.
Summary Table
| Lease Type | Notice Required for Rent Increase | Limit on Amount/Frequency? |
|---|---|---|
| Month-to-Month | 60 days (2025 law) | No |
| Fixed-Term Lease | 30–60 days before renewal | No |
| During Lease Term | Only if lease allows | No |
Key Takeaways
- Utah has no rent control or caps on rent increases.
- Landlords must now give 60 days’ written notice before raising rent (unless the lease states otherwise).
- Rent cannot be increased mid-lease unless explicitly allowed by the lease.
- Discriminatory or retaliatory rent increases are illegal.
- Tenants should review their lease and keep records of all notices.
By staying informed about these laws and your lease terms, you can better navigate rent increases and protect your rights as a tenant in Utah.
Sources:
- https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0182.html
- https://www.wolfnest.com/blog/understanding-and-implementing-rent-control-measures-in-utah
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-utah
- https://le.utah.gov/Session/2025/bills/introduced/HB0182.pdf