Oregon has long been at the forefront of tenant protections, being the first state in the U.S. to implement statewide rent control in 2019. With new updates and adjustments in 2025, renters and landlords alike must stay informed about the legal landscape.
The state’s rent increase laws are designed to protect tenants from excessive rent hikes while allowing landlords to maintain their properties fairly. Here’s everything you need to know about Oregon’s rent control laws, legal protections, and fair housing rights in 2025.
Statewide Rent Control: Key Provisions
Oregon’s rent control law, established under SB 608, continues to regulate how much landlords can increase rent each year. As of 2025, the maximum allowable rent increase is set annually based on inflation rates. Here are the key points renters need to understand:
- Maximum Rent Increase Cap: In 2025, Oregon law limits rent increases to 7% plus the West Coast Consumer Price Index (CPI). This cap prevents extreme rent hikes but still allows adjustments for inflation.
- Applies to Most Rentals: The rent cap applies to properties that are 15 years or older. Newly constructed buildings (less than 15 years old) remain exempt to encourage housing development.
- One Increase Per Year: Landlords can only raise rent once in a 12-month period and must provide 90 days’ written notice before implementing any increase.
Exceptions and Exemptions to Rent Control
While most rental units fall under the statewide rent control law, there are some exceptions:
- New Construction: Buildings constructed within the past 15 years are not subject to the rent cap.
- Subsidized Housing: Affordable housing units with government subsidies follow different rent regulations, often tied to federal programs rather than state laws.
- Landlord-Owned, Single-Family Rentals: If a landlord owns only one single-family rental property, they may be exempt, depending on lease terms and rental conditions.
Tenant Protections Against Unfair Rent Increases
Oregon’s rental laws also offer several protections against unfair rent hikes:
- Prohibited Retaliatory Rent Increases: A landlord cannot raise rent in retaliation against a tenant for reporting unsafe living conditions, requesting repairs, or exercising their legal rights.
- Transparency Requirements: Landlords must provide clear written notices that specify the amount of the increase, the effective date, and any legal references supporting the adjustment.
- Grace Period for Unlawful Increases: If a rent increase violates Oregon law, tenants have the right to challenge the increase through legal action or mediation.
Eviction Protections and Fair Housing Rights
In addition to rent control, Oregon has strong eviction protections under its fair housing laws:
- No-Cause Evictions Limited: Landlords cannot evict tenants without a valid legal reason after the first 12 months of tenancy.
- Relocation Assistance: In certain cases, landlords who evict tenants without cause may be required to provide relocation assistance.
- Discrimination Protections: Under Oregon’s Fair Housing Act, tenants cannot be denied housing or be treated unfairly due to race, gender, disability, age, or other protected categories.
What Tenants Should Do If Facing a Rent Increase
If you receive a rent increase notice in 2025, here are steps to take:
- Verify the Increase is Legal: Compare the increase to the 7% + CPI cap to ensure it complies with state laws.
- Check for Proper Notice: Ensure your landlord provided at least 90 days’ written notice before the increase takes effect.
- Communicate with Your Landlord: If the increase seems excessive or unclear, talk to your landlord to clarify and negotiate if possible.
- Seek Legal Assistance: If you believe the increase is illegal or retaliatory, contact Oregon’s Tenant Hotline or seek assistance from local tenant rights organizations.
Future Outlook: Will Oregon’s Rent Laws Change Again?
As Oregon continues to grapple with housing affordability, lawmakers may introduce new regulations in the coming years. Discussions around stricter rent control, expanded tenant protections, and additional affordable housing incentives could shape future policies. Renters should stay updated on legislative changes to protect their housing rights.
Conclusion
Oregon’s rent increase laws in 2025 aim to balance tenant protections with the needs of property owners. The 7% + CPI rent cap helps prevent excessive hikes while maintaining fair housing standards. Tenants should stay informed about their rights, understand exceptions to rent control, and take action if they suspect unlawful increases. With continued discussions on affordable housing, Oregon remains a state to watch for evolving rental policies in the coming years.
