TL;DR: Too long, Didn’t read
Fixed Term: If you are in a fixed contract (e.g., 12 months), your landlord cannot increase the rent unless you agree to it or there is a “rent review clause” in the contract.
Rolling Contract: They can increase it, but usually only once a year.
The Proper Way: They cannot just text you. They usually need to use a formal “Section 13 Notice” or get your written agreement.
Unfair Hikes: You can challenge a rent increase at a Tribunal if it is higher than the “market rate” for similar properties.
With the cost of living rising, many tenants are dreading that text from their landlord: “Hi, just letting you know the rent is going up by £200 next month.”
It causes instant panic. Do you have to pay it? Can they kick you out if you refuse?
The Golden Rule: They Can’t Just “Say So”
A landlord cannot simply demand more money whenever they feel like it. A tenancy agreement is a legal contract, and the price is fixed until that contract changes properly.
A Quick Story: Meet James
James is 4 months into a 12-month tenancy.
His landlord emails: “Mortgage rates have gone up, so I need to increase your rent by £100 starting next month.”
James checks his contract. There is no “Rent Review Clause.”
The Verdict: James can say no. Because he is in a “Fixed Term,” the price is locked for 12 months. The landlord’s mortgage problems are not James’s legal problem. He can refuse the increase until the fixed term ends.
Scenario A: You are in a “Fixed Term”
(This means you signed for 6 months, 12 months, etc., and the date hasn’t passed yet).
The Rule: The rent cannot increase.
The Exception: Unless your contract has a specific “Rent Review Clause” written into it (check the fine print!).
The Outcome: If you refuse, they have to wait until the fixed term ends to negotiate a new price.
Scenario B: You are on a “Rolling” Contract
(This means your fixed term ended, and you now pay month-by-month).
Landlords can increase the rent here, but they must follow strict rules:
Once a Year: They usually cannot increase it more than once every 52 weeks.
Agreement: If you agree to the new price in writing, it starts immediately.
Section 13 Notice: If you don’t agree, they must serve you a formal Form 4 (Section 13) notice.
It must give you at least 1 month’s notice.
It must be on the official government form. A text message or email does not count as a Section 13.
Can I Challenge an “Unfair” Increase?
Yes. If your landlord sends a Section 13 notice doubling your rent to way above the local average, you can fight it.
The Tribunal: You can apply to the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
What they do: They look at the house and the local market prices.
If the rent is fair (market rate), they will confirm it.
If the rent is too high, they will cut it down.
Warning: They can also decide the rent is too low and increase it, so only check this if the hike is ridiculous.
How to Negotiate (The Template)
Before going legal, try being human. Landlords often prefer a steady tenant over a vacant property.
Use this email template:
“Hi [Landlord Name], thanks for the update. I’ve looked at similar properties in this area, and they are renting for around £[Lower Amount]. Since I have been a reliable tenant and looked after the property, would you accept an increase to £[Your Offer] instead? I feel this is a fair market rate.”
Summary: Check the Paperwork
Don’t just update your Standing Order because they asked.
Remember:
Fixed Term? You are safe until it ends.
Rolling? Look for the “Section 13” form.
Too High? You can negotiate or appeal.
(Sources: Gov.uk – Rent Increases, Citizens Advice – Rent Increases)
This guide covers tenancy laws for England. Rules in Scotland (where rent caps often apply) and Wales differ significantly. Always consult a professional.