As a result of the Renters’ Rights Act, from 1 May 2026 the only lawful way to increase the rent for a tenancy in England will be to serve Section 13 Notice. The Section 13 notice can be found here under Form 4A.
Rules for serving a Section 13 notice.
There are different notice periods depending on how frequently the rent is paid. If the rent is paid monthly which is usually the case then you are required to give the tenant two month's notice of the rent increase.
When Can you serve the notice?
You cannot serve a S13 notice within 1 year of sending a previous notice.
You cannot serve a S13 notice within the first year of a new tenancy agreement.
Can a tenant dispute the rent amount?
A tenant can challenge the proposed rent by applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) and asking them to determine the fair market rent. This must be done before the S13 notice takes effect.
Please note that the Section 13 notice can only be used in England. For information on how to increase the rent in Scotland or Wales please see the following articles:
Increasing Rent in a Lodger's Agreement
A landlord may increase the rental amount for a Lodger's Agreement with reasonable notice, no specific forms are required.