Rent and Credit > Understanding Rent Increase Limits in the UK

Understanding Rent Increase Limits in the UK

Wollit Team2 minute read · Updated 11th August 2025

When your landlord mentions a rent increase, you'll naturally wonder: "Is this legal? How much can they actually raise my rent?" Understanding your rights helps you respond with confidence and protect your tenancy.

Can Your Rent Go Up During Your Tenancy?

• Fixed-term tenancies: Your rent usually cannot increase during this period
• Periodic tenancies: Landlords can propose increases, but they must follow strict legal rules about when and how they do it.

How Much Notice Must Your Landlord Give?

For most periodic tenancies, your landlord must give you proper written notice using a Section 13 form. This official document tells you the new rent, when it starts, and explains your rights.

• Minimum Notice: You'll get at least one month's notice if you pay rent weekly or monthly. This will consistently be two months' notice for all relevant tenancies under the Renters (Reform) Bill.
• Frequency: Rent can only be increased once every 12 months for the same tenant using this method.

Your Rights if Rent is Increased

You have important rights when facing a rent increase:

• Challenge unfair increases: Apply to the First-tier Tribunal if the new rent seems too high compared to local properties. You can stay in your home and keep paying your current rent while they decide.
• Stay During Challenge: You can remain in your home and continue paying your old rent until the tribunal makes a decision (but make sure your application is made before the new rent is due to start).
• No Retaliation: Your landlord cannot evict you just for questioning a rent increase or exercising your legal rights.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase in England

If you think a proposed increase is unfair:

1. Research First: Check rental prices for similar properties in your area using websites or local letting agents. This helps you build your case.
2. Try Negotiating: Present your landlord with your research showing comparable rents if yours seems too high.
3. Seek Advice: Contact Shelter or Citizens Advice for free, impartial guidance on your specific rights and situation.
4. Apply to Tribunal: If negotiation fails, apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) within the timeframe given on your Section 13 notice.

Turn Your Rent Payments Into Credit Building Opportunities

Your rent is likely your largest monthly expense. Here's something many tenants don't realise: those consistent, on-time rent payments can actually strengthen your credit file.

When you pay rent on time each month, you're demonstrating reliable payment behaviour. Wollit reports these payments directly to major UK credit agencies. Since payment history makes up a significant portion of your credit score, by having your rent payments recognised, you’re building positive credit history from money you’re already spending.

Getting Rent Increase Advice

For help or if you think an increase is unfair:

• Citizens Advice: Provides free, impartial guidance on housing and financial issues.
• Shelter: An expert housing charity offering comprehensive advice on tenant rights and rent increases.
• Your Local Council: Can offer local advice services and sometimes assist with landlord disputes.

Understanding these limits and your options helps you make confident decisions about your home and finances.

• Rent Basics