Notice of Rent Increase or Decrease

Notice of Rent Increase or Decrease

If you're a landlord in England, there's now only one way to increase the rent on an assured periodic tenancy: the Section 13 process, using the prescribed Form 4A. Since the Renters' Rights Act 2025 took effect on 1 May 2026, rent review clauses in tenancy agreements no longer have any effect.

The Rules for Rent Increases in England

• Once a year
  You can only increase the rent once in any 12-month period, and not in the first year of the tenancy.
• Two months' notice
  You must give at least two months' notice using Form 4A.
• Open market rent
  Tenants can challenge an increase at the First-tier Tribunal if they think it's above the open market rent.
• No rent review clauses
  A clause in the agreement that allows the rent to go up automatically no longer works.

Reducing the Rent

If you want to lower the rent, either for a period or permanently, put it in writing so both of you have a clear record of the new amount and when it starts.

Notice of Rent Increase FAQs

Can I use a letter instead of Form 4A?

For an assured periodic tenancy in England, the increase must be proposed on the prescribed Form 4A. An informal letter won't do.

What if I gave notice before 1 May 2026?

A valid Form 4 notice served before 1 May 2026 still applies. Your next increase can't take effect until at least a year after the last one.

Does this apply in Wales or Scotland?

No. Different rules apply in Wales and Scotland.