Generally, landlords may increase a tenant's rent only once every 12 months, regardless of whether the lease is month-to-month, one year, or two years. If the unit is regulated and a tenant has signed a two-year lease, the rent cannot be increased for the next 24 months.

To increase rent, the landlord must provide a written notice of the increase, either sent via U.S. Mail or delivered in person, only if the tenant signs to confirm receipt of the notice.

For exempt units - effective March 1, 2025, the Voluntary Rent Guideline (VRG) is 3.3%. While an exempt landlord is not required to adhere to the guideline, it is strongly recommended to prevent price gouging. For regulated units - effective July 1, 2025, the maximum allowable rent increase is 5.7%. Rent increase notices issued before June 30, 2025, that took effect on or after July 1, 2025, must not exceed a 5.7% increase.

The Office of Rent Stabilization (DHCA) manages rent increase inquiries for most residential rental properties in Montgomery County. However, DHCA does NOT have jurisdiction within the incorporated municipalities of the City of Gaithersburg (301.258.6340), the City of Rockville (240.314.8300), the City of Takoma Park (301.891.7119), and the Town of Laytonsville. Questions regarding properties in those jurisdictions should be referred to the local municipalities.