Rent increase rules in England

How to increase rent in England

1. Check the tenancy type and that the rent hasn't changed in the last 12 months and that the tenancy is more than 12 months old.
2. Use the correct form: Form 4A (Landlord's notice proposing a new rent).
3. Give at least 2 months' notice before the new rent takes effect, on the first day of a rental period.
4. The new rent must start on the first day of a rental period.
5. Be ready for a challenge: Tenants can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). The increase cannot take effect until the tribunal decides.

Deposit deadline in England

Protect the deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it and give the tenant the prescribed information.

Law: Housing Act 2004 (as amended) · GOV.UK — Tenancy deposit protection

FAQ — England rent increases

What form do I use to increase rent in England?
Use Form 4A (Landlord's notice proposing a new rent) from GOV.UK. Since the Renters' Rights Act (1 May 2026), rent review clauses in the tenancy agreement are void for increasing rent.

How much notice is needed for a rent increase in England?
At least 2 months. The new rent must start on the first day of a rental period.

How often can rent increase in England?
Once in any 12-month period, and not within the first 12 months of the tenancy.

Can my tenant challenge the increase?
Yes — the tenant can apply to the First-tier Tribunal before the new rent takes effect. The increase is suspended until the tribunal decides, and it can set an open-market rent.

Do I still need a Section 13 notice after the Renters' Rights Act?
Yes. Section 13 remains the only way to increase rent on an assured periodic tenancy in England, now with a 2-month notice period on Form 4A.

Official sources

GOV.UK — Assured periodic tenancies: rent increases
GOV.UK — Renters' Rights Act: an overview for landlords