What does "rent control" refer to?

"Rent control" refers to laws that specifically limit how much rent can be increased by landlords within a certain timeframe. These regulations are designed to protect tenants from sharp rent increases that could lead to housing instability, ensuring affordability in the rental market.

In rent-controlled areas, landlords must adhere to established guidelines that dictate the maximum percentage by which they can raise rent annually, providing tenants with a measure of financial security. This practice is particularly relevant in high-demand urban areas where housing costs can escalate rapidly. The focus of rent control is primarily on the economic relationship between landlords and tenants, aiming to balance their interests and foster a stable rental environment.

This distinction is critical as it differentiates rent control from other housing regulations that might deal with tenant rights, landlord conduct, or property maintenance, which serve different purposes in the realm of property management and tenant relations.