As of July 2025, updated regulations govern how rent increases are handled under Turkish law, and both tenants and landlords would benefit from understanding the latest framework.

🏛️ Legal Framework & Background

Turkish rental law, particularly Article 344 of the Turkish Code of Obligations, stipulates that rent increases are calculated based on the 12-month average Consumer Price Index (CPI). Unless your lease expressly defines otherwise, this is the legal ceiling for annual rent hikes

A prior measure, which capped rent increases at 25% annually, expired on July 1, 2024. This cap had temporarily limited rent adjustments even where inflation exceeded that rate. Critics argued it unfairly constrained landlords during a time of high inflation and disrupted market dynamics .

📈 What Renters & Landlords Need to Know Now

1. Rent Increases Are Limited by CPI

For 2025, the maximum allowable rent increase is tied to the average CPI over the preceding 12 months, unless your lease specifies otherwise. Any increase exceeding that CPI figure can be legally contested

2. Annual Once-a-Year Adjustment Only

Landlords may adjust rent only once per year, typically at the lease renewal date. Mid-lease rent hikes are not permitted under Turkish rental law

3. New Tenant Arrangements Are Exempt

If the unit is leased to a new tenant, the landlord can set rent based on current market levels. The CPI limit only applies to ongoing leases or renewals—not to freshly negotiated contracts

4. Disputing Excessive Increases

Tenants may challenge rent hikes that exceed the legal CPI backing. Courts or arbitration can intervene if the increase appears arbitrary or violates statutory guidelines

📊 Example Scenario

• Monthly Rent: 10,000 TL

• CPI 12-month Average: 45% (hypothetical)

• New Rent Cap: 14,500 TL
  If the landlord proposes a rent over 14,500 TL, the tenant would be within their rights to refuse or seek legal remedy.

💡 Why These Rules Matter

• Tenants enjoy stability and protection from unpredictable hikes when inflation is volatile.

• Landlords gain clarity and assurance that agreed adjustments are legally sound and enforceable—while also avoiding invalid contractual terms

🚀 Tips for Lease Renewal Time

1. Review your lease: Confirm whether the agreement specifies CPI, another formula, or leaves it undefined.

2. Use a rent increase calculator: Online tools for Turkey can estimate adjustment based on latest CPI data (<2025 average).

3. Compare proposed vs. legal cap: If the proposed increase exceeds CPI limits, negotiate or formally object.

4. For landlords: Align rent adjustments—especially in renewals—with CPI to stay compliant and avoid disputes.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The transition to a CPI-based system in July 2025 marks a return to inflation‑adjusted rent dynamics in Türkiye. Tenants now have a clear benchmark to ensure fairness, while landlords benefit from predictable legal limits. Whether you’re renewing a lease or negotiating a new one, staying informed is the key to a balanced and legally compliant agreement.

For personalized legal advice, especially in complex cases or high inflation scenarios, consider consulting a legal professional or specialized rental law firm.