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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Oct 2008
    Location
    Montana
    Posts
    2

    Default Landlord Keeps Raising Rent

    My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Montana

    My boyfriend moved into his house in Feb. of this year. He had a verbal agreement with the landlord, to pay $450/month rent.

    In Sept, the landlord thought that I had moved in (I hadn't), so he said he was raising the rent to $600/month. My bf talked to the landlord and explained that if that was the case, I WOULD be moving in, to help him pay the rent. The landlord said that was fine, and I moved in.

    About mid-Sept, the landlord brought over a written lease, for my bf to sign. He signed it without reading it (big mistake, we know). It was a year lease, saying that my bf was the only allowed occupant, and that the rent was $600.00. After speaking to the landlord about it, he said don't worry... he knew I was living here. But the lease was never changed.

    Today, the landlord has come over again, saying that the rent will be increased AGAIN, as of Nov 1st. To $850/month! Why? Because I live here.

    My questions:
    I know Montana doesn't have any rent control laws. But regarding the verbal lease, and the landlord acknowledging that I live here, and THEN raising the rent again BECAUSE I live here. Is that legal? And to go from $450 to $850 in a 10 month period is just ridiculous. Also, can he still raise the rent, with a written lease, whether I live here or not?

    We have been the best renters, always paying rent and never causing any problems. I just don't get it. Now, because of this increase which we can NOT afford, we'll have to move.

    Is there anything we can do? Can we refuse to pay the increase, because of the lease?

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Posts
    252

    Default Re: Landlord Keeps Raising Rent

    If the lease has a set amount for the entire year, he can not change this amount. But as you said, your BF signed an agreement that he would be the ONLY person occupying the premises. He should of read what he signed because now the landlord can evict both of you. You BF, for breaking the lease agreement, and you for being an un-authorized tenant.

    No..you don't have to pay the increase, but you must leave if you decide not to.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Oct 2008
    Location
    Montana
    Posts
    2

    Default Re: Landlord Keeps Raising Rent

    Thank you for your reply! My bf now sees his mistake. My bf didn't actually break the lease. The landlord just decided not to retype the lease, with my name on it, though he verbally said it was okay that I was here. It doesn't really matter, it seems. We're looking for another place to live. Unfortunately, now we're worried that the landlord will hold us liable for the year lease. Can't win for losing on this one! Thank you, though, for answering me.

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