Rent Increases in Utah: What Landlords Can Legally Do

Myth: Landlords in Utah can raise rent at any time, even in the middle of a lease.

Fact: In Utah, rent increases during a fixed-term lease (like a one-year contract) are not allowed unless both landlord and tenant agree in writing. Landlords may raise rent only when:

• The lease is month-to-month and proper written notice (at least 15 days) is given. See Utah Code § 78B-6-802.
• The lease term has ended, and a new contract (with updated rent) is being offered.

If you’re under a current fixed-term lease in Salt Lake City, Provo, or anywhere in Utah, your landlord cannot raise rent until your lease expires—unless you both agree to a new amount in writing.

Myth: Landlords can tack on new fees or increase existing fees (like parking or pet fees) during a lease.

Fact: Most new charges or increased fees cannot be added during a lease—the terms are locked unless you agree in writing. For example, if you signed a 12-month lease with a $25/month pet fee, your landlord can’t suddenly double it months later unless you consent.

Always review your lease: Some contracts may allow for certain adjustments (such as utilities that fluctuate with the market), but surprise “rule change” fees without notice or outside these agreements are generally not allowed under Utah law.

• Check your written contract for any flexible fee language.
• Demand changes in writing; keep records if disputes arise.

Utah law requires landlords to give at least 15 days’ written notice before raising rent if you’re on a month-to-month lease (Utah Code § 78B-6-802). For a fixed-term lease, no increase takes effect until your current lease ends—unless you both agree otherwise.

1. If your lease is month-to-month: Your landlord must give at least 15 days’ notice in writing.
2. If you have a long-term (fixed) lease: Rent can’t be raised until your lease expires—unless you voluntarily sign a new agreement.

Quick Tip: Notices must be delivered in writing. Verbal notices are not legally valid.

• Logan: Alex rents month-to-month. His landlord gives him a written notice on June 1 that his rent will go up in 20 days—this is legal, since it meets the 15-day minimum.
• St. George: Lena rents on a year lease. Three months in, her landlord tries to increase rent. She refuses; legally, she’s in the right—no increase until her lease ends.
• Ogden: Jamal sees a new “trash removal” fee slip into his invoice mid-lease. Unless his contract says unexpected fees can be added, he can legally object and request it be removed.

• Always demand rent increase notices in writing.
• Read your lease carefully—look for flexible fee language or modification clauses.
• If you receive a mid-lease increase, ask for the exact Utah Code section permitting it.
• Document all communications with your landlord.
• If you disagree, send your concern in writing and keep a copy for your records.

1. Verbal Agreements: Don’t rely on verbal “promises” about future rent—they’re hard to enforce. Get everything in writing.
2. Not Responding: Ignoring written rent increases or fee notices can look like consent. Always reply promptly to protect your legal position.
3. Not Checking Lease Expiration: Know when your lease ends—this affects your rights if a rent hike is proposed.

• Utah Code § 78B-6-802 — Termination of Tenancy & Notice Requirements
• Utah Code § 57-22-5 — Landlord-Tenant Act: Lease Agreements

To fully review your rights and obligations, always read your lease agreement and compare it to the current Utah statutes above.