Oregon Rent Increase Rules
Rent Increases compliance guide for Oregon, Usa. Covers landlord-tenant regulations, requirements, and legal obligations.
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.
Oregon Rent Increase Rules
Oregon became the first state in the US to enact statewide rent control when SB 608 was signed into law in 2019, building upon the legal foundation of the Oregon Revised Statutes (effective 1859). The law caps annual rent increases for qualifying properties under ORS Chapter 90 and requires substantial advance notice—making it one of the most tenant-protective rent regimes in the nation.
The Statewide Rent Control Cap
Pre-2019 Rules
Post-SB 608 Rules
For residential rental units that are 15 years old or older, landlords cannot raise the rent by more than 7% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in any 12-month period. The combined total is further capped at a maximum of 10%, regardless of how high inflation runs.
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) publishes the maximum allowable increase percentage by September 30 of each year for the following calendar year.
Who Is Exempt?
The rent control cap does not apply to:
- New construction: Units that received their first certificate of occupancy within the last 15 years.
- Subsidized housing: Units where rent is tied to a government subsidy program.
- The first year of tenancy: During the first 12 months of a new tenancy (excluding week-to-week agreements), the landlord cannot increase rent at all.
90 Days' Written Notice Required
All rent increases in Oregon require at least 90 days' written notice to the tenant. This is one of the longest notice periods in the nation and applies to both month-to-month and fixed-term tenancies.
Once Per 12 Months
Landlords can only increase rent once within any 12-month period. This prevents landlords from issuing small, frequent increases that effectively exceed the annual cap.
Fixed-Term Leases
During a fixed-term lease, the rent generally cannot be increased unless the lease agreement explicitly contains a rent escalation clause. At the end of the fixed term, the landlord may increase the rent for the renewal (with 90 days' notice and within the cap).
No Retaliatory Increases
Oregon law prohibits landlords from raising rent in retaliation against a tenant who has:
- Complained about habitability issues.
- Reported building code violations.
- Exercised any right under ORS Chapter 90.
Best Practices for Oregon Landlords
- Check the DAS Website Annually: The maximum increase percentage changes every year. Always verify the current cap before issuing a rent increase notice.
- Track the 12-Month Clock: Maintain records of when the last rent increase took effect for each unit. The 12-month window must fully elapse before the next increase.
- Issue 90-Day Notices Early: Send rent increase notices at least 100 days in advance to account for mail delivery and ensure compliance.
Back to Oregon Landlord-Tenant Laws Overview.
How Landager Helps
Landager simplifies compliance with Oregon's complex landlord-tenant laws. From tracking 31-day security deposit deadlines to enforcing statewide rent control caps and 90-day notice periods, our platform ensures your Oregon portfolio remains legally sound while optimizing your operational efficiency.
Sources & Official References
Frequently Asked Questions
▶What are the Oregon rent increase laws and caps for landlords?
Oregon 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 Oregon has any local rent control ordinances that may impose additional caps or requirements.
▶What are the Oregon landlord-tenant laws every property owner should know?
Oregon is one of the most tenant-protective states in the nation. Residential landlord-tenant relationships are governed by Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 90, which establishes statewide rent control, strict eviction procedures, structured late fee rules, and robust habitability standards. The legislature has continued to strengthen tenant protections through 2024-2025 reforms. This guide covers the essential compliance requirements for property owners and landlords.
Read the complete guide▶What is the Oregon eviction process and how long does it take?
The Oregon 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 Oregon. The full court process varies but typically takes several weeks.
Read the complete guide▶What are the Oregon security deposit rules and return deadlines?
Oregon 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 is the grace period for late rent in Oregon?
Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Oregon landlords provide to tenants?
Oregon 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 Oregon lease requirements for rental properties?
Oregon 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 Oregon law.
Read the complete guide▶What are Oregon landlord maintenance obligations and habitability standards?
Oregon 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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