By Mel Dorman, September 23, 2021
By Mel Dorman, September 23, 2021
Oregon became the first state to establish state-wide rent control in 2019. Senate Bill 608 –
The Oregon Residential Landlord Tenant Act, passed in Feb 2019,caps the allowable rent increase each year to 7% plus the West Coast Consumer Price Index.
The maximum rent increase rate for 2022 was announced Sept 15 and will be 9.9%.
In 2021, the maximum increase was 9.2%.
Landlords who exceed the maximum rent increase can face a penalty of 3 months’ rent and actual damages sustained by the tenant, in addition to potential attorney fees and legal costs. Limited exceptions apply, such as in the case of affordable housing providers and for new construction. Those who believe they may be exempt should consult with an attorney.