Nebraska is considered a landlord-friendly state, and its laws regarding rent increases reflect this stance. As of 2025, there are no statewide or local rent control ordinances in Nebraska, giving landlords broad discretion over how much and how often they can raise rent. However, tenants are protected by important notice requirements and anti-discrimination laws. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what tenants should know about rent increases in Nebraska in 2025.
No Statewide or Local Rent Control
- Nebraska does not have any statewide rent control laws, meaning there is no legal cap on how much a landlord can increase rent.
- No cities or counties in Nebraska, including Omaha, have enacted local rent control ordinances. All municipalities follow state law, which does not restrict rent increases.
When and How Can Landlords Raise Rent?
- At Lease Renewal: For fixed-term leases, landlords can only raise rent at the end of the lease term, unless the lease specifically allows for increases during the lease.
- Month-to-Month Tenancies: For month-to-month agreements, landlords can raise rent at any time, provided they give proper notice.
- During a Lease: Rent cannot be increased during an active lease term unless the lease agreement explicitly permits it.
Notice Requirements for Rent Increases
- Written Notice: Landlords must provide written notice of any rent increase.
- Notice Period:
- Month-to-Month Leases: At least 30 days’ notice is required before the new rent takes effect.
- Fixed-Term Leases: The notice period is typically 30–60 days, depending on the lease terms. If the lease is silent, 30 days is the default.
- Week-to-Week Leases: At least 7 days’ notice is required.
- Mobile Home Tenants: At least 60 days’ notice is required.
- How Notice is Delivered: Notice can be given in writing, either as actual notice or via U.S. mail.
How Much Can Rent Be Increased?
- No Cap: There is no statutory limit on the amount or percentage by which rent can be increased.
- Frequency: There is no restriction on how often rent can be increased, provided each increase is accompanied by the required notice.
- Market Influence: While the law does not limit increases, market competition may influence how much and how often landlords choose to raise rent.
Protections Against Unlawful Rent Increases
- No Retaliation: Landlords cannot raise rent in retaliation for tenants exercising their legal rights, such as reporting code violations or joining a tenant association.
- No Discrimination: Rent increases cannot be based on a tenant’s race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin, or disability, in accordance with the Fair Housing Act.
- Habitability: Landlords must maintain habitable living conditions. Raising rent while neglecting repairs or essential services can be challenged.
What Should Tenants Do if They Receive a Rent Increase?
- Review the Lease: Check if the lease allows for mid-term increases and verify the required notice period.
- Check the Notice: Ensure the notice is in writing, specifies the new rent amount, and gives the correct advance notice.
- Seek Legal Help: If you suspect the increase is retaliatory or discriminatory, contact the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission or seek legal aid.
- Negotiate or Move: If the increase is lawful but unaffordable, tenants may negotiate with the landlord or use the notice period to find alternative housing.
Nebraska Rent Increase Laws 2025
| Aspect | Rule/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rent Control | None (no cap on amount or frequency) |
| Notice Period (Month-to-Month) | At least 30 days’ written notice |
| Notice Period (Fixed-Term) | 30–60 days, per lease or 30 days by default |
| Notice Period (Week-to-Week) | 7 days |
| Notice Period (Mobile Home) | 60 days |
| Discriminatory/Retaliatory Increases | Prohibited |
| Mid-Lease Increases | Only if lease allows |
| Legal Recourse | Legal Aid, NE Equal Opportunity Commission |
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Nebraska law gives landlords wide latitude to raise rent, but only with proper written notice and without discrimination or retaliation.
- There is no legal limit on the amount or frequency of rent increases.
- Tenants should always review their lease, check the notice, and know their rights under state and federal law.
- If you believe a rent increase is illegal, free legal resources are available to help challenge it.
By staying informed and proactive, Nebraska tenants can better navigate the rental market and protect their interests in 2025.
Sources:
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/nebraska-rent-control-laws/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/rent-increase-laws-regulations-nebraska
- https://www.hemlane.com/resources/nebraska-tenant-landlord-law/
- https://www.boloforms.com/signature/contracts/real-estate/notice-of-rent-increase/nebraska/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/how-much-can-a-landlord-raise-rent-in-nebraska
