Can a Landlord Increase Rent in the UK and What are the Rules?

Question from Farhan, Can a Landlord Increase Rent in the UK and What are the Rules?

Answer from AI:

In the UK, landlords have the right to increase rent, but there are specific rules and procedures they must follow. The rules vary depending on the type of tenancy agreement in place.

Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs)

For Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), which are the most common type of tenancy in the UK, landlords can increase rent:

• After the fixed term of the tenancy ends, unless the tenancy agreement specifies otherwise.
• During the fixed term if the tenancy agreement includes a rent review clause, or if the tenant agrees to the increase.

Landlords must give tenants a minimum of one month’s notice for rent increases if the tenancy is weekly or monthly. For yearly tenancies, they must give six months’ notice.

Statutory Periodic Tenancies

For Statutory Periodic Tenancies, which begin after the fixed term of an AST ends if a new fixed-term contract isn’t signed, landlords can increase rent once a year without the tenant’s agreement. They must use a special form known as a ‘Landlord’s notice proposing a new rent’ (form 4B), and give the tenant a minimum of one month’s notice.

Other Tenancies

For other types of tenancies, such as regulated or protected tenancies, different rules apply. Landlords may need to get permission from a Rent Assessment Committee before they can increase rent.

It’s important to note that any rent increase must be fair and realistic, i.e., in line with average local rents. If a tenant believes a rent increase is unfair, they can challenge it.

Challenging a Rent Increase

Tenants can challenge a rent increase by:

• Referring the proposed increase to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber in England, or Rent Assessment Committee in Wales) if they believe it’s not in line with local rents.
• Applying to the tribunal for an assessment of the rent within the first six months of a statutory periodic tenancy.

Legal Advice

If you’re a tenant facing a rent increase you believe is unfair, or a landlord unsure about how to increase rent legally, it’s a good idea to seek legal advice. A legal professional can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

For more information, you can refer to the UK government’s guide on rent increases and the Shelter’s guide on rent increases.

Remember, this information is a general guide and not a substitute for professional legal advice.