February 2026 Rent Increase Rate Set at 34pct in Turkey

Turkey’s official rent increase rate for February 2026 has been clarified following the release of the latest inflation figures by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK). According to the data, the legally applicable rent hike rate for both residential and commercial leases renewed this month is capped at 33.98%, reflecting a continued slowdown in inflation-driven rent increases. This figure is based on the 12-month average of the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which remains the primary reference point for rent adjustments under Turkish law.

The announcement comes as millions of tenants and property owners closely monitor inflation, with rental costs remaining a sensitive component of household budgets. While inflation pressures persist, the downward trend in annual averages has begun to translate into relatively lower rent increase ceilings than in previous months.

Inflation Data Behind the February 2026 Rent Cap

TÜİK’s January inflation report forms the basis of the February rent adjustment rate. According to official figures, the Consumer Price Index rose 4.84% month-on-month in January, while annual inflation was 30.65%. These numbers feed directly into the calculation of the 12-month CPI average, which ultimately determines the maximum allowable rent increase for renewed contracts.

As a result of this calculation, the 12-month average CPI was 33.98%, setting the legal upper limit for rent increases in February. This rate applies uniformly to residential and commercial properties, provided the lease is due to renew during the month.

The gradual easing in inflation has been mirrored by a decline in rent increase rates over recent months. While the figures remain elevated by historical standards, the trend suggests a moderation compared to the sharp spikes seen during earlier phases of high inflation.

How the Rent Increase Rule Is Applied

Under current regulations, rent increases in Turkey are subject to clear legal boundaries designed to balance the rights of tenants and landlords. The announced 33.98% rate is a ceiling, not a mandatory increase. Property owners may apply a lower rate or choose not to increase rent at all, but they cannot exceed the CPI-based limit unless a court order states otherwise.

Crucially, rent increases may be applied only once per year, at lease renewal. Mid-year adjustments are not permitted, regardless of changes in inflation, exchange rates, or either party’s personal financial circumstances. This rule provides predictability and legal certainty for tenants, particularly in periods of economic volatility.

Another common misconception concerns salary increases. Wage hikes at the beginning of the year do not constitute legal grounds for raising rent. Even if a tenant’s income rises, rent adjustments remain strictly tied to the lease renewal date and the applicable CPI average.

Tenant Protections and Landlord Rights

The Turkish rental framework aims to prevent arbitrary increases while still allowing landlords to seek fair market value over time. For tenants who have occupied a property for less than five years, the CPI-based cap remains the dominant rule. However, different mechanisms come into play once a tenancy reaches a longer duration.

Landlords who believe the legally capped increase does not reflect market realities may pursue a rent determination lawsuit, but only under specific conditions. For tenants who have been in the same property for five years or more, the landlord may initiate a rent assessment. Before filing a lawsuit, however, mandatory mediation is required, reflecting recent legal reforms intended to reduce court congestion and encourage negotiated settlements.

If mediation fails, courts may assess the rent based on market conditions, comparable properties, and principles of fairness. Until such a ruling is issued, landlords are bound by the CPI ceiling.

What This Means for February 2026 Renewals

For tenants renewing their contracts in February 2026, the key takeaway is the need for clarity. The maximum permissible increase is clearly defined at 33.98%, offering a measurable reference point for negotiations. For landlords, the data underscores the importance of complying with legal limits and highlights alternative legal channels for long-term leases where market divergence is significant.

The broader picture also signals a potential shift in the rental landscape. As inflation shows signs of easing, rent increase caps may continue to decline in the coming months, providing incremental relief for tenants. At the same time, property owners will be watching closely to see whether economic stabilization translates into sustainable returns without legal disputes.