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Rent increase

A rent increase occurs when a landlord raises the monthly rent during a tenancy. In the UK, landlords cannot simply increase rent whenever they choose; they must follow strict legal procedures that depend on the type of tenancy agreement in place. Any increase must be fair, reasonable, and in line with local market rates.

As of May 2026, the Renters's Rights Act changed the way Rent Increases work. Specifically, rent review clauses in contracts are now void. Landlords can only increase rent once a year via a "Section 13" notice and must give 2 months' notice.

What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know

To ensure a rent increase is legally valid and to avoid disputes, both parties should be aware of the following rules:

  • Written Notice is Mandatory: A landlord must provide formal written notice of any increase. For a rolling (periodic) tenancy, this is usually at least one month’s notice.
  • The "Market Rate" Rule: The proposed new rent must be "reasonable." This means it should be similar to the rent for comparable properties in the local area.
  • Fixed-Term Restrictions: During a fixed-term tenancy, the rent generally stays the same. A landlord can only increase it mid-term if the contract contains a Rent Review Clause.
  • Negotiation: Tenants have the right to negotiate. If a landlord proposes an increase, the tenant can suggest a lower figure or a more gradual rise.
  • The Right to Challenge: If an agreement cannot be reached, tenants can challenge an "unreasonable" increase through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord raise the rent during a fixed-term contract? Usually, no. Unless your tenancy agreement specifically includes a "rent review clause," the rent is locked in until the end of the fixed term tenancy. The only exception is if you voluntarily agree to a change in writing.
  2. Can I refuse a rent increase? Yes. If you believe the increase is excessive or unfair, you do not have to agree to it immediately. However, you should continue paying your current rent while you negotiate or wait for a formal legal notice (such as a Section 13 notice) from the landlord.
  3. How do I challenge an increase? If you have been served a formal Section 13 notice and believe the new rent is significantly higher than similar properties nearby, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal. They will independently decide what the rent should be, but be aware that they could potentially set the rent higher than the landlord's proposal if they find the market rate justifies it.
  4. Does rent increase automatically every year? No. There is no automatic annual increase in UK law. Rent only goes up if there is a specific clause in your contract or if the landlord follows the formal process to propose a new rate.