Alaska Landlord-Tenant Laws: Complete Guide for Property Owners
Detailed overview of Alaska rental property laws including security deposits, eviction procedures, rent control, required disclosures, and maintenance obli...
Legal Disclaimer
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Laws change frequently — always verify current regulations and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Landager is a property management platform, not a law firm.Information last verified: May 2026.
Alaska's landlord-tenant laws are primarily governed by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03), which has been effective since July 1, 1974. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, ensuring fair housing practices and setting clear guidelines for leases, security deposits, and maintenance.
Official Law Citation: The rules and regulations outlined on this page are strictly configured under the official Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03).
Key Alaska Rental Laws at a Glance
Security Deposits
Alaska law restricts how much a landlord can charge for a security deposit. For units renting for $2,000 or less per month, the maximum security deposit is two months' rent. An additional pet deposit of up to one month's rent may also be collected. The landlord must mail the refund and/or itemized accounting within 14 days after the tenancy is terminated if the tenant gave proper notice (per AS 34.03.290). The landlord has 30 days to return the deposit only if the tenant failed to give proper notice or if the landlord is deducting for physical damages to the premises (as defined in AS 34.03.120(a)(5)).
For more detail, see our Security Deposits deep dive.
Rent Control and Increases
Alaska has no statewide rent control laws. Landlords are generally free to set rent prices and increase them as they see fit, provided they do so at the end of a lease term and with proper written notice. For standard month-to-month tenancies, landlords must give written notice at least 30 days before the rental due date before raising the rent.
For more detail, see our Rent Increases guide.
Eviction Procedures
Evicting a tenant in Alaska requires strict adherence to the Forcible Entry and Detainer (F.E.D.) process, adjudicated in the Alaska District or Superior Court. "Self-help" evictions (like changing locks) are entirely illegal.
At-Fault Evictions
- 7-Day Notice to Pay or Quit - for nonpayment of rent.
- 10-Day Notice to Cure or Quit - for lease violations. Unconditional notices can be given for repeated violations.
- 24-Hour to 5-Day Notice to Quit - for significant, deliberate damage exceeding $400 or illegal activity (prostitution or other illegal activity).
No-Fault Evictions
- 30-Day Notice (before the rental due date) - for terminating a month-to-month tenancy.
For more detail, see our Eviction Process guide.
Required Disclosures
Before or at the commencement of the tenancy, Alaska landlords must disclose specific information to the tenant:
- Manager/Owner Info: The name and address of the person authorized to manage the premises and the person authorized to receive notices.
- Deposit Deduction Terms: Clear terms under which the landlord may retain security deposit funds.
- Absence Notification: A requirement that the tenant notify the landlord of any anticipated extended absence longer than seven days.
- Lead-Based Paint: For properties built before 1978 (federal requirement).
For more detail, see our Required Disclosures guide.
Maintenance and Habitability
Under the warranty of habitability, Alaska landlords must keep rental properties in a safe and fit condition. This means landlords must:
- Maintain major systems (electrical, plumbing, heating).
- Supply running water and reasonable amounts of hot water.
- Provide trash receptacles.
- Keep common areas safe and clean.
- Supply and maintain functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
If a landlord fails to make critical repairs within a reasonable time (typically 10 days, or much faster for emergencies), tenants have remedies including the "repair and deduct" option.
For more detail, see our Maintenance Obligations guide.
Late Fees
Alaska has no statutory limit on late rent fees. However, courts require the fees to be "reasonable" and not excessive to the point of being a penalty. While the state usury rate is 10.5% per annum, it does not strictly cap late fee percentages, though excessive fees may be challenged as unconscionable. Fees must be clearly defined in the lease. There is no mandatory grace period.
For more detail, see our Late Fees guide.
Getting Started with Compliance
Navigating property management in Alaska requires careful attention to statutory timelines and written disclosures. Landager provides the tools you need to this process, including tracking security deposit deadlines and securely storing your lease agreements and property condition reports.
Explore more Alaska compliance topics:
Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What are the Alaska landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
Alaska's landlord-tenant laws are primarily governed by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS 34.03). It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, ensuring fair housing practices and setting clear guidelines for leases, security deposits, and maintenance. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
▶What is the Alaska eviction process and how long does it take?
The Alaska eviction process requires landlords to provide written notice to tenants before filing a court action. The type and length of notice depends on the reason for eviction — typically shorter for non-payment of rent and longer for lease violations or no-fault terminations. Self-help evictions (changing locks, removing belongings, shutting off utilities) are illegal in Alaska. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Alaska security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Alaska has specific rules governing how much landlords can charge for security deposits, how deposits must be held, and the deadline for returning deposits after a tenant moves out. Landlords must provide an itemized statement of any deductions made from the deposit. Failure to comply with deposit return deadlines can result in penalties and the forfeiture of the landlord's right to claim deductions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Alaska rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Alaska has specific rules governing when and how landlords can increase rent. During a fixed-term lease, rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease explicitly allows it. For month-to-month tenancies, landlords must provide proper written notice before an increase takes effect. Check whether Alaska has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
Read the complete guide▶What is the grace period for late rent in Alaska?
Alaska has specific rules regarding grace periods for late rent and the amount that can be charged as a late fee. Late fee provisions must be stated in the lease agreement, and fees must be reasonable. Check Alaska state law and any applicable local ordinances for the exact grace period and late fee limits that apply to your rental property.
Read the complete guide▶What disclosures must Alaska landlords provide to tenants?
Alaska landlords must provide certain disclosures to tenants before or at the time of lease signing. Common required disclosures include lead-based paint hazards (for pre-1978 buildings, a federal requirement), the identity of the landlord or property manager, and any known material defects in the property. Additional state-specific disclosures may include flood risk, mold hazards, and environmental conditions.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Alaska lease requirements for rental properties?
Alaska recognizes both written and oral leases, though written leases are strongly recommended for terms longer than one year. Lease agreements should include the rent amount, payment due date, security deposit terms, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding entry, pets, and subletting. Certain lease clauses that waive tenant statutory rights may be void and unenforceable under Alaska law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Alaska landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Alaska landlords must maintain rental properties in a condition that is fit for habitation and complies with applicable building, housing, and health codes. This includes maintaining structural integrity, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and pest control. Tenants typically have the right to request repairs in writing, and if repairs are not made within a reasonable time, tenants may have legal remedies available.
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