Rent increase guides
Last checked 21 October 2026 against GOV.UK, legislation.gov.uk, Shelter and Citizens Advice. England only. Self-help information, not legal advice.
Is my Section 13 notice valid?
How to tell if your landlord's Section 13 rent increase notice is valid under the Renters' Rights Act rules in force from 1 May 2026: form, notice period, once-a-year rule and more.
Form 4A rent increase notice explained
Form 4A is the landlord's notice proposing a new rent for private assured tenancies in England from 1 May 2026. What each section means and the dates to check.
Challenge a rent increase at tribunal
Step-by-step: applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to challenge a Section 13 rent increase in England. Deadline, £47 fee, evidence and what happens next.
How often can my landlord increase rent?
From 1 May 2026 private landlords in England can only increase rent once a year, not in the first year of a tenancy, and only with a Section 13 notice. Here's how the 52-week rule works.
Rent increase notice period in England
From 1 May 2026, private landlords in England must give at least 2 months' notice of a rent increase on Form 4A. How to count the 2 months, with worked examples.
Rent increase without a Section 13 notice
An email, text or call is not a legal rent increase in England from 1 May 2026. What to reply, what to keep paying, and what changes if a Form 4A arrives later.
Rent review clauses after the Renters' Rights Act
From 1 May 2026 rent review clauses can't be used to put up private rents in England, even if you signed one. What it means for you and what to tell your agent.
Comparable rents evidence for the tribunal
How to gather comparable-rent evidence for a First-tier Tribunal rent challenge in England: what counts most, a simple comparables table and where to look.
Negotiate a rent increase (with a letter)
How to negotiate a Section 13 rent increase in England: what to propose, getting any deal in writing, a short sample letter, and when to apply to the tribunal.
Paying rent while the tribunal decides
If you've applied to the rent tribunal in England, keep paying your current rent. When a new rent starts, the 1 May 2026 rules, exceptions and benefits.