The process
The landlord serves the prescribed government form proposing the new rent and its start date. The increase takes effect unless the tenant refers it to the First-tier Tribunal before that date.
The tribunal
The tribunal assesses the market rent and can confirm or reduce the proposed figure, but under the Renters' Rights Act it cannot set a rent higher than the landlord proposed.
What no longer works
Rent review clauses in tenancy agreements are void, and informal increases agreed outside Section 13 are unenforceable, though a tenant can accept a lower figure than the notice proposes.
Frequently asked questions
How often can rent be increased?
Once in any 12-month period, and not during the first 12 months of the tenancy.
How much notice is required?
At least two months before the new rent takes effect.
Can the tribunal increase the rent above my proposal?
No. The tribunal can only confirm the proposed rent or set a lower one.
Related terms
Related reading
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