Montana Rent Increase Laws

Last Updated: June 11, 2024 by Roberto Valenzuela

Does Montana Have Rent Control Laws?

Montana does not have rent control laws limiting the amount that landlords may charge for rent. State law prohibits local governments from establishing rent control laws, except property in which local government has a legal interest, such as directly owned state property or property regulated through a housing authority. [1]

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When Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Montana?

Landlords in Montana can raise the rent at any time, as long as they comply with the following:

• Aren’t raising rent for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons
• Give reasonable notice
• Wait until the end of the lease term (unless otherwise specified in the lease)

When Can’t a Landlord Raise Rent in Montana?

Landlords in Montana may not raise the rent if:

• It is during the middle of a lease’s fixed term (unless stated otherwise in the lease agreement)
• It is done in response to a protected tenant action, such as organizing a tenants’ group or union (i.e., retaliation) [2]
• The increase is applied in a way that discriminates against one of the protected classes specified in the Fair Housing Act

How Often Can Rent Be Increased in Montana?

Landlords in Montana can increase the rent as often as they choose as long as they provide sufficient notice each time.

How Much Notice is Needed to Raise Rent in Montana?

In Montana, landlords cannot raise the rent during a lease term. They must also provide sufficient notice as follows:

• Month-to-month tenants – 30 days of advance notice [3]
• Week-to-week tenants – 7 days of advance notice [4]

Landlords do not need to provide a reason for the rent increase on the notice letter. When the tenant receives the notice, they may choose to enter a new lease at a higher rate or move out.

How Much Can a Landlord Raise Rent in Montana?

In Montana, landlords can raise the rent by any amount. There is no legal limit or cap on the amount of a rent increase.