Rent Hike Mistakes: 7 Things Utah Landlords and Tenants Get Wrong

One of the biggest slip-ups is failing to give or receive proper written notice before a rent hike. Under Utah Code § 57-22-4, landlords generally must provide tenants with written notice at least 15 days before any rent increase if the lease is month-to-month. This applies in cities like Provo, Logan, or St. George. If you’re on a longer lease, double-check that your contract explains how and when the rent can legally go up—Utah law still requires honesty and clarity.

Many landlords and tenants overlook what the written lease actually says about rent changes. Unless your rental agreement specifically allows mid-lease adjustments, most Utah leases lock in the rent amount until renewal. Trying to hike rent during a fixed-term lease—like a 12-month agreement—without legal cause or permission can void the increase and spark a dispute. Always check (and keep!) your signed contract.

While Utah law controls most rent increase situations, some cities—especially Salt Lake City—have local ordinances about notices and timelines. For example, stricter timelines or special disclosure requirements may apply for certain types of housing or assistance programs. Always check your city’s website or housing authority so you don’t accidentally break the rules in your area.

It’s easy to send (or receive) a rent increase notice at the wrong time. Under Utah law, any rent hike for a month-to-month tenancy must take effect at the start of a new rental period—not in the middle. If your rent is due the 1st of each month, a new rate can only start after that date with adequate notice. This avoids confusion and potential small claims in Utah courts.

Both landlords and tenants often fail to document rent increase notices. Landlords should always keep a copy of any notice delivered—ideally with a date and the tenant’s signature acknowledging receipt. Tenants should save notice letters or emails and note when they were received. If you end up in court in Utah (like Salt Lake City Justice Court), this proof could decide who wins.

• Send notices via certified mail when possible.
• Use email only if both sides previously agreed in writing.
• Keep a signed hard copy for your records.

Utah landlords cannot raise rent out of retaliation—such as after a tenant requests repairs or reports code violations. Under Utah Code § 57-22-5, retaliation is illegal and can lead to legal trouble (including financial penalties). Tenants in places like Ogden and Logan should know they can’t be targeted for exercising their rights, and landlords must document legitimate reasons for any rent change.

Utah does not have state laws that cap how much a landlord can raise rent. This surprises many tenants from larger cities. However, discrimination and retaliation limits still apply. Always review your lease and the required notice period. If you believe a rent hike is used to punish or discriminate, you may have a claim under Utah Code § 57-21-5 (Utah’s Fair Housing Act).

• Review your lease—See what it says about changes, notice, and renewal dates.
• Check notice requirements—Landlords: send written notice at least 15 days in advance for month-to-months.
• Save every document—Keep copies of notices, lease addendums, and all emails or texts.
• Know your city—Be aware of any special local rules (especially in Salt Lake City or Provo).
• If in doubt—Ask a local housing expert or attorney for guidance.