Q: Hi my tenants are on a month to month. I was wondering how can I increase rent ? Do I need to send a notice to quit ?Thx

A: To increase the rent on a month-to-month lease when your town isn't rent-controlled, you typically need to provide your tenants with a proper notice of rent increase. This notice should be in writing and should specify the amount of the increase, as well as when the new rent will take effect. The required notice period often varies by state, but it's commonly 30 days for month-to-month tenancies. It's important to check your local laws to ensure you comply with the specific requirements in your area.

A notice to quit is generally not necessary unless you are planning to terminate the tenancy instead of just increasing the rent. If your intention is solely to raise the rent and continue the rental agreement under new terms, then a rent increase notice is the correct procedure. Ensure that your notice is clear, concise, and delivered in a manner that meets legal requirements, such as hand delivery, certified mail, or as otherwise specified by local regulations.

Finally, consider the impact of the rent increase on your tenants and the marketability of your rental property. While it's within your rights to adjust rent to reflect market conditions, doing so in a fair and reasonable manner can help maintain a positive relationship with your tenants and reduce turnover. If in doubt about the process or how to proceed, consulting with a professional experienced in real estate or landlord-tenant relations in your jurisdiction can provide guidance tailored to your situation.