Your complete guide to renter protections in Birmingham, AL. Learn about local ordinances, rent control status, security deposit rules, and how city law works alongside Alabama state protections.
No
Rent Control
60
Days to Return Deposit
1 month's rent (exceptions for pets, alterations, or increased liability; § 35-9A-201)
Max Deposit
3
Local Protections
Current rent regulation status
No Local Rent Control
Birmingham does not have local rent control. Alabama state law governs rent increase practices.
Without local rent control, landlords in Birmingham may raise rent with proper written notice as required by Alabama law. There is no cap on the amount of increase, but it must not be retaliatory or discriminatory.
Birmingham-specific laws and ordinances
Birmingham Fair Housing Ordinance with local enforcement
Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies
60-day security deposit return under state law
Local ordinances work alongside Alabama state law. Where local protections are stronger, the local rule typically applies. View full Alabama state protections.
Laws that apply to all Alabama renters
Max Security Deposit
1 month's rent (exceptions for pets, alterations, or increased liability; § 35-9A-201)
Deposit Return Deadline
60 days
Entry Notice Required
2 days
Governing Statute
Alabama Code
Common questions about renting in Birmingham
No, Birmingham does not currently have local rent control. Alabama state law governs rent increase rules. Landlords must typically provide proper written notice before raising rent.
In Birmingham, the Alabama state limit of 1 month's rent (exceptions for pets, alterations, or increased liability; § 35-9A-201) applies. Landlords must return deposits within 60 days after you move out.
Birmingham tenants benefit from several protections: Birmingham Fair Housing Ordinance with local enforcement; Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act applies; 60-day security deposit return under state law. These are in addition to Alabama state law.
You can contact the Birmingham local housing authority or code enforcement department to file complaints about habitability issues, discrimination, or landlord violations. Visit your local housing authority's website for details. You can also file with the Alabama attorney general's office for state-level violations.
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