Rent caps, also called rent control, are government-mandated limits on how much a landlord can charge for rent. These laws can either set a maximum amount that can be charged or how much rent can be increased over time. Rent control laws are supposed to keep housing affordable, but some landlords have found clever ways to get around these restrictions. Not all states have these laws, but states like New Jersey, California, and New York do.
Rent control aims to make housing more affordable and equitable for tenants. However, some landlords try to get around these laws. While not always illegal, these tactics can leave tenants surprised with sudden increases or unexpected costs. Here are eight little-known methods landlords are still using to bypass rent caps.
