How Often Can My Landlord Increase My Rent?

Rent increases are a concern for many tenants. Knowing how often your landlord can raise your rent depends on your tenancy type and the laws governing it. Here’s a breakdown of the rules.

1. Fixed-Term Tenancies

During a fixed-term tenancy, your landlord cannot increase the rent unless:

• Your tenancy agreement includes a rent review clause.
• You and your landlord agree to a new rent during the fixed term.

If there’s no clause or agreement, the rent stays the same until the fixed term ends. Private assured tenancies in England became periodic from 1 May 2026, so fixed terms and rent review clauses no longer apply to them.

2. Periodic Tenancies

If you’re on a periodic (rolling) tenancy, your landlord can propose a rent increase, but it must follow these rules:

• Rent can be increased only once per year, and not in the first year of the tenancy.
• The landlord must give at least two months’ notice.
• In England, a Section 13 notice (Form 4A) is now the only way a private landlord can increase the rent of an assured tenancy.

3. Social Housing Tenancies

If you live in social housing, rent increases are subject to additional rules. These rents are often linked to inflation or government-set limits and can usually be raised annually in line with these guidelines.

4. New Tenancy Agreements

When a fixed-term tenancy ends, and a new agreement is signed, the landlord can set a new rent. This effectively resets the terms, including rent amounts.

What to Do If You Receive a Rent Increase

• Check your tenancy agreement to see if the increase complies with its terms.
• Ensure your landlord followed proper legal procedures, including providing sufficient notice.
• If you believe the increase is unfair, consider negotiating or challenging it through a tribunal.

Key Points

• Fixed-term tenancies protect against mid-term rent increases unless agreed otherwise.
• Periodic tenancy rent increases are generally limited to once per year.
• Proper notice and legal procedures must be followed for any increase.

Understanding these rules can help you respond appropriately to any proposed rent changes.