Ps don’t let on that it upsets you to the landlord you need the element of surprise in warfare. But don’t pay the increase until you talk to a lawyer or get legal advice.
My rule on lawyers—forget the well dressed lawyers in fancy offices.
For this kind of stuff you need a Better Call Saul junkyard dog lawyer.
They want your business and love causing chaos and heartburn for the other side.
The fact that the new owner is from New Jersey will make their day.
;-)