Understanding Rent Increases During a Fixed Term in Wales

If you're renting in Wales, it's important to know what your landlord can and cannot do when it comes to raising your rent, especially if you're in the middle of a fixed term (sometimes called a fixed period) tenancy. Understanding the protections you have under Welsh law can help you respond with confidence and ensure your rights are respected.

What is a Fixed Term Tenancy?

A fixed term tenancy is an agreement that lasts for a set period, such as 6 or 12 months, during which the key terms—especially the rent—cannot usually be changed unless both you and your landlord agree.

• Standard contract: Most renters in Wales now have a standard occupation contract under the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016^[1].
• Fixed term: This defines the period your rent and terms are locked in.

The rent and other terms are set when you sign the contract and should remain the same until the fixed term ends, except in specific circumstances defined by law.

Can My Landlord Raise My Rent During a Fixed Term?

Generally, your landlord cannot increase the rent during a fixed term unless your written contract specifically allows for it, usually through a ‘rent review clause’. If such a clause exists, it must follow strict legal requirements about how the increase is calculated and how much notice is given to you.

• If there is no rent review clause, rent cannot be increased until the fixed term ends.
• If there is a rent review clause: your landlord must follow its wording exactly, and must still give you at least one month’s written notice before any increase takes effect^[2].

How Must a Landlord Notify You?

If your tenancy allows for a rent increase, your landlord must give you proper written notice. The notice should be clear, state the amount of the proposed new rent, and specify when it will start. This is often done via a ‘Notice of Variation of Rent’.

• Form: RHW12 – Notice of Variation of Rent
• Use: Your landlord should use this form to formally propose a rent increase during a periodic standard contract, but some fixed term contracts may reference this process in their terms.
• Official RHW12 Form and Guidance

Example: If your fixed term contract states rent can be reviewed in month 6 with a month’s notice, your landlord would serve you the RHW12 form at that time.

Challenging a Rent Increase

If you think a rent increase is unfair or your landlord has not followed the rules, you don’t have to accept it. You can challenge the proposal through the legal channels provided to tenants in Wales.

Residential Property Tribunal for Wales

The Residential Property Tribunal Wales is the official body that deals with disputes over rent increases and other tenancy matters.

• If you feel the new rent is unreasonable, you can apply to the Tribunal for a decision.
• Form: Apply to the Tribunal using their application forms for rent disputes (Official Tribunal Forms).

The Tribunal will consider whether the proposed rent is in line with the local market and fair. During your contract’s fixed term, this is only possible if your agreement allows for a review and the correct process is followed.

What Happens at the End of the Fixed Term?

When your fixed term ends, your landlord can propose a rent increase. They must still give you at least one month’s notice in writing before any new rent takes effect, usually using Form RHW12. You have the right to negotiate or challenge the increase if you disagree with it.

Key Steps If Your Landlord Tries to Increase Rent

• Check your contract for any rent review clauses and the correct process.
• If the increase is not allowed or the process isn’t followed, let your landlord know in writing.
• Ask for help if you need advice or wish to challenge the rent through the Tribunal.

Always keep copies of any notices and correspondence for your records.

FAQ: Rent Increases During a Fixed Term in Wales

1. Can a landlord increase rent during a fixed term tenancy in Wales?
   Usually not, unless your agreement specifically allows this with a rent review clause and proper notice has been given.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   At least one month’s written notice is required before any increase takes effect. The notice should comply with your contract and statutory rules.
3. What if my landlord increases rent without following the contract?
   Inform your landlord in writing that the increase is not valid. If necessary, contact the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for further help.
4. Can I challenge a rent increase in Wales?
   Yes, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales if you believe the increase is not justified or the right process hasn’t been followed.
5. What official form must the landlord use for rent increases?
   The RHW12 Notice of Variation of Rent is typically used for formal rent increase notices in Wales.

Key Takeaways

• Rent increases during a fixed term in Wales are only allowed if your agreement includes this option and the legal process is followed.
• Landlords must give at least one month’s notice for increases and use the correct official form.
• You can challenge an unfair or improper rent increase through the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Knowing your rights gives you the power to respond confidently if you're faced with a rent increase during your fixed term contract.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government – Renting Homes (official advice and guidance)
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales (challenge rent increases and resolve tenancy disputes)
• Shelter Cymru: Rent Increases (free tenant advice)
• Check your local authority's website for further support or contact Citizens Advice Wales.

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1. See the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 for full legal provisions on occupation contracts and rent changes.
2. Notice and process rules are outlined on the Welsh Government's guidance for landlords and tenants.

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