How to negotiate with your landlord

Your first step is to research local laws to figure out if the proposed increase is legal. Rental laws vary widely by state and city, and some places afford renters many more protections. Track down your state’s landlord-tenant handbook — often found on the website of your city or county government, or local housing or health department — to get started.

Carefully read your lease to see if a specific rent-raising process such as this is outlined. If you find one, compare it to local laws to make sure it’s allowed. You can also contact a real estate agent for an analysis of rental prices in your area to check whether the proposed increase aligns with the overall market.

Reaching out to neighbors to inspire some collective action can also strengthen your position. Whether you create a formal tenant union or just have a conversation, building these connections can make everyone feel more supported.

Gabby Cruz, a real estate agent at Compass, recommends doing a public records search of your landlord’s name or the LLC that owns their properties, or using their basic business license number (BBL) to find which properties they’re licensed to rent. “This research is crucial because you can see how many properties they own and whether their license is active.”