How to Challenge a Rent Increase

If your landlord wants to increase your rent, they must follow proper procedures. You can challenge an increase if it wasn't done correctly or if it's above market rate.

Is the Increase Valid?

For periodic tenancies (rolling month-to-month), landlords must use a Section 13 notice to increase rent. Check that:

You received at least 1 month's notice (or one rental period, whichever is longer)
The correct form was used (Form 4)
It's been at least 12 months since the last increase
The new rent starts after the notice period ends

Applying to the Tribunal

If you think the increase is above the market rate, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to challenge it. You must apply before the new rent would take effect.

The tribunal will compare your rent to similar local properties
They'll consider the property's condition and location
They can set a lower rent - but also a higher one if they think it's below market rate
Their decision is legally binding

Be careful - the tribunal could set a higher rent if they think your current rent is below market rate. Get advice before applying.

Negotiating

Before going to tribunal, try negotiating with your landlord. Show them comparable rents in the area and propose a smaller increase. Many landlords will compromise rather than lose a good tenant.

From May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act will limit rent increases to once per year via Section 13 only. Rent review clauses will no longer be valid.

Official Sources

If your landlord wants to increase your rent, they must follow proper procedures. You can challenge an increase if it wasn't done correctly or if it's above market rate.

Is the Increase Valid?

For periodic tenancies (rolling month-to-month), landlords must use a Section 13 notice to increase rent. Check that:

You received at least 1 month's notice (or one rental period, whichever is longer)
The correct form was used (Form 4)
It's been at least 12 months since the last increase
The new rent starts after the notice period ends

Applying to the Tribunal

If you think the increase is above the market rate, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to challenge it. You must apply before the new rent would take effect.

The tribunal will compare your rent to similar local properties
They'll consider the property's condition and location
They can set a lower rent - but also a higher one if they think it's below market rate
Their decision is legally binding

Be careful - the tribunal could set a higher rent if they think your current rent is below market rate. Get advice before applying.

Negotiating

Before going to tribunal, try negotiating with your landlord. Show them comparable rents in the area and propose a smaller increase. Many landlords will compromise rather than lose a good tenant.

From May 2026, the Renters' Rights Act will limit rent increases to once per year via Section 13 only. Rent review clauses will no longer be valid.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase

Is the Increase Valid?

Applying to the Tribunal

Negotiating

Official Sources

Need more help?

Related Guides

Banned Tenant Fees

My Deposit Wasn't Protected - What Can I Do?

Unfair Deposit Deductions - How to Dispute

How to Challenge a Rent Increase

Is the Increase Valid?

Applying to the Tribunal

Negotiating

Official Sources

Need more help?

Related Guides

Banned Tenant Fees

My Deposit Wasn't Protected - What Can I Do?

Unfair Deposit Deductions - How to Dispute