The New Rules on Rent Increases
The Renters Rights Act 2025 significantly tightens the rules on rent increases. Previously, landlords had wide freedom to increase rent at the end of a fixed term or through a rent review clause. That has changed.
From 1 May 2026, the following rules apply to all private tenancies in England:
- Your rent can only be increased once in any 12-month period — no more frequent rent hikes.
- Your landlord must follow a formal notice procedure for every increase — verbal requests or informal letters are not valid.
- The proposed new rent must be at or below the market rate for comparable properties in your area.
- Bidding wars are banned — landlords cannot advertise a property below the asking rent and then accept more from a competing applicant.
What a Valid Rent Increase Looks Like
Your landlord must serve you with a formal written notice using the prescribed form (available from gov.uk). This notice must:
- Give you a specific minimum period of notice before the increase takes effect
- State the proposed new rent amount clearly
- Be signed and dated by the landlord or their agent
An email saying “I am putting the rent up by £100 next month” is not a valid notice and does not legally oblige you to pay the increase.
You Have the Right to Challenge
If you believe the proposed increase is above what comparable properties in your area are renting for, you have the right to challenge it. You do not simply have to accept whatever figure your landlord proposes.
The challenge process involves applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — a free, independent body that will assess what a fair market rent should be. The Tribunal can prevent your landlord from charging more than market rate.
Our members-only guide covers the full challenge process in detail — what evidence to gather, how to file the application, and what to expect at the hearing.
What You Should Do Now
Check any increase notice you receive is valid before agreeing to pay the higher amount.
Research comparable rents in your area so you know whether the proposed increase is at market rate.
Do not feel pressured to accept an increase just because your landlord has asked for it informally.
Want the full step-by-step guidance?
Our members-only guide “How to Challenge a Rent Increase at the First-tier Tribunal” takes you through exactly what to do, letter by letter, step by step. It includes the specific timescales, the forms you need, and how to build your case.
Members also get access to ready-to-use letter templates, priority support from our housing specialists, and — for urgent eviction cases — same-day response.
This is a free awareness guide produced by Renters Rights Act Services. It explains the law in general terms only and does not constitute legal advice. For detailed, actionable guidance specific to your situation, become a member at rentersrightsactservices.co.uk/claude/. We are not a law firm.