Rent and rent increases

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

Different tenancies have different rules about how much rent should be charged and when the amount can be increased. Housing association and council rents should work out cheaper than an equivalent property in the private sector.

Before you move into a new home you should check exactly how much the rent and any service charges will be, and when and how you need to pay them, to avoid getting into rent arrears. If you need help with your rent and you're on a low income, you may be able to apply for housing benefit. If you're looking for accommodation in the private rented sector, you may be able to get help with deposits or rent in advance. If you need to speak to an adviser urgently about a rent problem, use our advice services directory to find an agency in your area.

Private tenancies

Rents in the private sector tend to be higher than council or housing association rents, but different tenancies have different rules on paying rent and rent increases. Read more 

Council tenancies

The council sets the amount of rent you have to pay. The type of council tenancy you have will make no difference. The rent is usually less than private landlords would charge for a similar property. Read more 

Housing association tenancies

Most housing association tenancies should work out cheaper than renting the equivalent property privately. Different tenancies have different rules about when and how you should pay your rent, so check carefully to see what it says in your tenancy agreement. Read more 

Rent Assessment Committees

Most housing association and private tenants have the right to challenge rent increases through the Rent Assessment Committee (RAC). Read more