February 2026 Rent Increase Rate in Türkiye Announced: Legal Cap Set at 33.98 Percent
The Turkish Statistical Institute has published the first inflation data of 2026. With the release of the January Consumer Price Index figures, the 12 month average CPI rate has been finalized. This figure determines the legal maximum rent increase rate applicable in February 2026.
As of February 2026, the statutory rent increase cap for both residential and commercial leases is 33.98 percent.
Following the removal of the temporary 25 percent residential cap in July 2024, rent increases are calculated based on the 12 month average Consumer Price Index (CPI – TÜFE, formerly known together with TEFE as TEFE-TÜFE) in accordance with the Turkish Code of Obligations.
This article explains the legal framework, clarifies common misunderstandings, and provides practical calculation examples for property owners and tenants.
January 2026 Inflation Data
According to the official announcement of the Turkish Statistical Institute, the inflation indicators for January 2026 are as follows:
Monthly Inflation Rate: 4.84 percent
Annual Inflation Rate: 30.65 percent
12 Month Average CPI (TÜFE – previously referred to as TEFE-TÜFE): 33.98 percent
The 12 month average CPI is the legally binding upper limit for rent increases in February 2026.
What Does This “Maximum” Rate Mean?
The 33.98 percent rate is not an automatic or mandatory increase. It represents the legal ceiling.
This means:
A landlord cannot demand an increase exceeding 33.98 percent.
The parties may agree on a lower rate.
Any clause imposing a higher rate is legally invalid.
It is therefore a maximum threshold, not a compulsory minimum.
Legal Basis for Rent Increases in Türkiye
Under Article 344 of the Turkish Code of Obligations:
Rent increases in renewed lease periods cannot exceed the 12 month average CPI (TÜFE).
This applies to both residential and commercial leases.
The CPI average functions as a statutory cap.
Important Reminder: No Need to Sign a New Contract Every Year
A frequent misconception among both landlords and tenants is that a new lease agreement must be signed annually.
This is incorrect.
In Türkiye:
The original lease agreement remains legally valid.
At the end of each one year term, the contract automatically renews under the same conditions.
Only the rent amount is adjusted according to the CPI limit, unless otherwise agreed.
Tenants are not required to sign a new contract every year for the lease to remain valid.
February 2026 Rent Increase Calculation Examples
Below are sample calculations based on the legal cap of 33.98 percent.
Example 1
Current Rent: 100,000 TRY
Increase Rate: 33.98 percent
Increase Amount: 33,988 TRY
New Rent: 133,988 TRY
Example 2
Current Rent: 300,000 TRY
Increase Rate: 33.98 percent
Increase Amount: 101,940 TRY
New Rent: 401,940 TRY
These examples reflect the maximum permissible increase. The parties may mutually agree on a lower adjustment.
Legal Consequences of Exceeding the Cap
If a landlord demands an increase above the 12 month average CPI:
The excessive portion is legally unenforceable.
The tenant may challenge the increase.
The dispute may be brought before the competent civil court.
Proper calculation and documentation reduce the risk of rent determination lawsuits or enforcement disputes.
Conclusion
For February 2026 lease renewals in Türkiye, the applicable legal rent increase ceiling is 33.98 percent, based on the 12 month average CPI (TÜFE, formerly TEFE-TÜFE).
This rate represents a maximum limit, not a mandatory adjustment. Lease agreements automatically renew under existing terms, and tenants are not required to execute new contracts annually.
Property owners and tenants should ensure compliance with statutory limits to avoid legal disputes.
