How to increase rent legally

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025 the statutory notice becomes the only route to raise rent.

7 min read · Updated 2 August 2026

Overview

Rent can be increased by agreement, by a rent review clause in the tenancy, or by serving a statutory notice — a Section 13 notice for assured periodic tenancies in England. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 removes rent review clauses for assured tenancies and makes the statutory notice route the standard mechanism, with a maximum of one increase per year.

Why it matters

An invalid increase means the old rent continues, arrears based on the new figure evaporate, and any possession claim relying on those arrears fails.

Legal requirements

Serve the correct prescribed form with the required notice period — two months under the reformed regime.
No more than one increase in any 12-month period.
The proposed rent must not exceed market rent for a comparable property.
Tenants may refer the proposed rent to the First-tier Tribunal before the start date.

Common mistakes

Using an out-of-date prescribed form.
Miscalculating the start date so it does not align with a rental period.
Increasing twice in a year following a mid-year agreement.
Raising rent as a response to a repair complaint — this risks a retaliatory eviction finding.

Practical guidance

Evidence market rent with three comparable local listings and keep them on file.
Give tenants informal notice a month before the formal notice to reduce turnover.
Record the notice service method and date in the tenancy audit trail.
Update the rent schedule and reminders on the same day the increase takes effect.

Frequently asked questions

How much notice is needed for a rent increase?

Two months under the reformed regime, using the statutory prescribed notice, and no more than one increase in any 12-month period.

Can the tenant challenge the increase?

Yes. They can refer the proposed rent to the First-tier Tribunal before the start date, which will decide the market rent.

Related guides

Serving notices on tenants correctly

Serving notices to tenants – whether for possession, rent increases, or repairs – requires strict adherence to legal forms, notice periods, and service methods. Incorrectly served notices are frequently dismissed by cour

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 — landlord guide

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 fundamentally reforms the private rented sector, transforming tenancy structures, eviction processes, and landlord obligations. This guide helps UK landlords navigate the new legal landscape.

Plain-English UK compliance changes, Renters' Rights Act 2025 updates and new guides — no spam, unsubscribe any time.

This guide is general information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.