Rent increases for private tenants
The law is changing
The Renters' Rights Act will mean:
your rent can only go up once a year
you cannot be evicted for challenging a rent increase
Changes start from 1 May 2026.
For now, your tenancy rights stay the same.
How much can your rent go up by?
Your landlord can suggest any amount of rent increase.
There are no rent controls in a private tenancy unless you're a regulated or protected tenant.
How can your rent increase before 1 May 2026?
Your rent could be increased if you:
agree to pay a higher rent
sign a new tenancy agreement at a higher rent
You might get a section 21 eviction notice if you do not agree a rent increase.
Your landlord cannot give you this type of notice from 1 May 2026.
Rent review clauses
Your contract might have a clause that says when the rent can go up.
Your rent can only go up with a rent review clause if the increase comes in before 1 May 2026.
More on rent review clauses.
Section 13 rent increase notices
Your landlord might be able to give you a section 13 notice to put your rent up.
Your landlord can only give you a section 13 notice once a year.
If your landlord tells you to pay more rent
Your landlord might just tell you the rent is going up without a formal notice. For example, they might phone or message you.
Your rent will only go up if you agree to it.
How can your rent increase from 1 May 2026?
Your landlord can only increase your rent with a section 13 notice from this date.
This does not apply if you get a valid eviction notice before this date. Do not agree to a rent increase unless it means your landlord will let you stay. Ask for a new tenancy agreement.
More on section 13 notices before and after 1 May 2026.
Pressure to agree to a rent increase
It could be harassment if your landlord or agent pressures you to agree to the increase.
It's illegal for a landlord to make you leave because you will not agree to a rent increase.
Last updated: 16 April 2026
