I have lived at Pine Knoll apartment complex in Longview Texas for 2 years. I signed a new, year long, lease agreement in June. Today, Sept. 14, I come home to a notice on my door stating that they are raising my rent by $40 a month. There are no hidden facts here. I am current and have always acted within the parmeters of the lease agreement. The lease is a standard TAA agreement. Can they do this? I see nothing that says they can. I thought the lease was a legaly binding contract for both parties. Also, can they charge more for pets than the lease says not to exceed? Where can a person go for help?

What you can do if you are sure the lease does not give them the right, 1. ask them why, ask for the reason in writing
2. remind them of the lease. ( This is a trick I have seen done many times) my apartment tried it thierself this year. I came home with the note on the door, saying that the water was being added to the rent as of next month,
I called and told them no it was not, then I followed up with a letter saying no my lease was for... for the time.

Next after being sure the lease does not allow them, just refuse to pay it, pay your regular amount on time. Then if they wish to try to evict they will take you to court, you present your proof and win.

It will be up to them take you to court if they want to try and force you

I can tell you for a fact that the TAA lease does not allow for this. It's the lease I use. Read Paragraph 15.

I would write them a note and keep a copy of it for yourself. Tell them that you'll be glad to get in touch with them prior to 30 days before your lease is up and discuss whether you'll be extending your lease at the higher rate. In the mean time you will continue to pay your $XXX.XX of rent, as stated in your lease, through (whatever date your lease ends.)

That should end it. May have been clarical error - person giving out increases didn't notice your renewal, etc.