How Landlords Need To Manage Rent Increases

How Landlords will be able to increase rent on their properties

Rent Adjustments in Line with Market Conditions

Landlords continue to have the right to adjust rents to reflect current market rates.
However, tenants now have stronger rights to challenge any increase they believe is excessive.
These disputes can be referred to the First-tier Tribunal, which will assess the proposed rent against comparable market evidence

Mandatory Use of Section 13 Notices

All rent increases must be issued via a Section 13 notice, in accordance with the Housing Act 1988.
This formal mechanism ensures that tenants receive proper notice and that the increase is legally enforceable.

Annual Limitation on Rent Increases

Under the new legislation, rent may not be increased more than once in any 12-month period.
This gives more stability and predictability for tenants while allowing landlords to plan rent reviews in a structured manner.

Minimum Notice Period of Two Months

Landlords must give a minimum of two months’ notice before any rent increase.
This aligns with the Bill’s introduction of a unified system of periodic tenancies, replacing fixed-term agreements and allowing tenants to terminate their tenancy with two months’ notice at any time.

Revised Grounds for Possession Under Section 8

The abolition of Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions means landlords must use Section 8 for regaining possession of a property.
The grounds for possession have been strengthened and clarified.

Prohibition of Retaliatory Rent Increases

The Bill introduces protections for tenants meaning landlords can’t use rent increases as a way to indirectly evict tenants.
It ensures that any rent adjustment is justifiable, especially following disputes or complaints.

New Landlord Ombudsman Scheme

A new Private Rented Sector Landlord Ombudsman will provide tenants with a fast, impartial, and binding resolution process for complaints, including those related to rent increases

The Renters’ Rights Bill represents the most significant overhaul of private rental law in over 30 years. For landlords, understanding and complying with the new rules is essential - not only to avoid legal pitfalls but also to foster trust and professionalism in landlord-tenant relationships. By following the updated procedures for rent increases, landlords can continue to manage their investments effectively within a fairer and more transparent legal framework.