Rental increase
Dear PAO,
I am a 48-year-old-government employee. I have been renting the same room near my office for three years now. My landlord that he is about to increase my monthly rental fee. I pleaded with my landlord if he can give me time before applying the increase in my monthly rent, but he reasoned out that his family’ s needs have also increased. Was the action of my landlord valid? Please answer my question. Thank you.
Alfie
Dear Alfie,
Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9653 (An Act Establishing Reforms in the Regulation of Rent of Certain
Residential Units, Providing the Mechanisms Therefor and for Other Purposes) is applicable to your situation. Section 4 of law provides that:
“Section 4. Limit on Increases in Rent. - xxx xxx xxx Provided, That after such period until December 31, 2013, the rent of any residential unit covered by this Act shall not be increased by more than seven percent (7%) annually as long as the unit is occupied by the same lessee: Provided, further, That when the residential unit becomes vacant, the lessor may set the initial rent for the next lessee: Provided, however, That in case of boarding houses, dormitories, rooms and bedspaces offered for rent to students, no increase in rental more than once per year shall be allowed. ” (Emphases supplied)
Applying the said law in your situation, the owner of the room you are leasing can increase the monthly rental payment. The law allows the owner of a leased property for rent to increase rental payment not more than once per year for as long as the property is occupied by the same lessee. Based from the facts you stated, you have been renting the same room for three years. Hence, the action of your landlord is valid. However, it is important to note that the increase in rental payment shall not be more than seven percent annually.
We hope that we were able to answer your query. Please be reminded that this advice is based solely on the facts you have narrated and our appreciation of the same. Our opinion may vary when other facts are changed or elaborated.
Editor’snote: Dear PAOis a daily column of the Public Attorney’s Office. Questions for Chief Acosta may be sent to dearpao@manilatimes.net