How Much Notice Does a Landlord Need for a Rent Increase in England?
If you’re renting a home in England, knowing if – and how – your landlord can raise your rent is crucial. Many renters worry about surprise increases and need clarity on their rights. In England, landlords cannot legally raise your rent without proper notice and following set procedures. This article explains when rent increases are allowed, what notice must be given, the forms involved, and how you can challenge a rise if you believe it is unfair.
Your Legal Rights Around Rent Increases
Most renters have what’s called an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). Your rights to notice and to challenge a rent increase are protected under official legislation – primarily the Housing Act 1988[1] and related guidance from the UK government.
- Your landlord cannot increase your rent without proper notice.
- The method and minimum notice period depends on whether your tenancy is in a fixed term or periodic (rolling) phase.
1. Fixed Term Tenancies
During the fixed term (for example, the first 12 months of the agreement), your rent only goes up if:
- Your contract contains a specific “rent review clause” allowing increases, and that clause is followed as written.
- You and your landlord mutually agree, in writing, to a new rent.
If there’s no clause and you don’t agree, the rent typically cannot change until the fixed period ends.
2. Periodic (Rolling) Tenancies
After the fixed term, your tenancy usually becomes 'periodic' (rolling monthly or weekly).
- Your landlord must provide at least one month’s written notice if you pay rent monthly, or the length of your rental period if longer (e.g., six weeks for a six-week rental period).
- The rent cannot be increased more than once in a 12-month period without your agreement.
How Must a Landlord Give Notice for a Rent Increase?
Notice must be given in writing, following one of two main methods:
- Using a 'Section 13' notice (officially called a 'Landlord's notice proposing a new rent' or Form 4).
- Or, mutually agreeing in writing outside the formal process.
Official Notice Form
- Form 4 – Landlord’s notice proposing a new rent (Section 13 notice under Housing Act 1988)
- Landlord uses this to legally propose a rent increase for periodic tenancies.
- View and download Form 4 here from the government website.
- Example: Your landlord hands you Form 4, giving you one month's notice that your rent will increase from £700 to £750 per month.
You should never accept a rent increase just because you received an email or text from your landlord unless you wish to agree voluntarily. Formal notice is required.
Challenging a Rent Increase: Your Rights as a Renter
If you feel your increase is unfair or the correct process wasn’t followed, you can take action:
- You may refer the notice to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property).
- The tribunal decides if the proposed rent is in line with similar properties in your area.
To do this:
- Complete the Application for rent determination (Section 13 challenge).
- Send your application and a copy of the Section 13 notice to the tribunal office listed on the form.
You will not be asked to pay more than the amount requested by your landlord while your application is being considered.
Summary of Notice Periods and Key Forms
- Fixed term? Rent usually cannot increase unless your contract allows it or you agree in writing.
- Rolling tenancy? Landlord must give at least one month’s written notice, using Form 4 (Section 13).
- Challenging? Apply to the First-tier Tribunal before the start date of the new rent.
In all cases, the process must follow the rules in Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988[1].
FAQs About Rent Increases and Notice in England
- Can my landlord increase the rent without telling me?
No, in England, your landlord must always give written notice and follow the correct legal process, usually using a Section 13 notice (Form 4). - How much notice must be given for a rent increase?
At least one month’s notice (or longer if your tenancy period is longer), in writing, is required for periodic tenancies. - What should I do if I think my rent increase is too high?
You can challenge it by applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) before the new rent begins. - Does this process apply to all types of tenancies?
These rules most commonly apply to Assured Shorthold Tenancies. Other tenancy types, like regulated tenancies, may have different procedures. - Where can I get the official forms for challenging a rent increase?
You can download Form 4 and the Application for rent determination directly from GOV.UK.
Key Takeaways for Renters
- Landlords in England cannot raise your rent without written notice.
- The most common notice is the Section 13 (Form 4) – with at least one month’s notice.
- You have the right to challenge an increase through the First-tier Tribunal.
Understanding notice requirements protects you from unfair or unexpected rent increases.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- GOV.UK – Rent increases: rules for private tenants
- Download Form 4 – Section 13 rent increase notice
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber – Residential Property) for rent complaints and challenges
- Shelter England – Challenging a rent increase
- Local councils: Find your council’s housing advice by searching Find your local council
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