Quick Answer
Rent, deposits and increases are governed by your lease and by law. For controlled tenancies, a landlord must get tribunal approval before raising rent; for others, rent can rise only with proper notice — never overnight.
Key facts
- A deposit is usually one to two months’ rent, and is refundable.
- Controlled-tenancy rent increases need tribunal approval.
- Other rent increases require proper written notice.
- Always get and keep rent receipts.
Deposits
A landlord usually takes a security deposit (commonly one to two months’ rent) at the start, documented in the tenancy agreement. It is refundable at the end of the tenancy, minus genuine deductions for damage — not as a matter of the landlord’s convenience.
Rent increases
Rent cannot simply jump. For a controlled tenancy under the Rent Restriction Act, a landlord must obtain the Rent Restriction Tribunal’s approval before increasing rent — a unilateral increase is unenforceable. For other tenancies, an increase requires proper written notice (commonly a month) under the lease.
Whether a tenancy is “controlled” depends on thresholds set in law — confirm the current position if it matters to your case.
Receipts and records
Always insist on rent receipts and keep them, along with your agreement and any correspondence. These are your evidence if a dispute arises over payment, increases or your deposit.
Why this matters to you
Rent is most people’s biggest monthly cost, and disputes over deposits and increases are common. Knowing the rules — and keeping receipts — is your protection.
Frequently asked questions
Can my landlord raise rent whenever they want?
No — controlled tenancies need tribunal approval; others require proper written notice.
How much deposit is normal?
Commonly one to two months’ rent, refundable minus genuine damage.
Do I need rent receipts?
Yes — they are key evidence in any dispute.
Sources & references
- Rent Restriction Act (Cap 296) — kenyalaw.org