Section 13 rent increase

A Section 13 notice is a legal way for landlords to raise the rent on an existing tenancy.

It applies to: 

• periodic or rolling tenancies (no fixed end date), if there’s no rent review clause in your tenancy agreement
• fixed-term tenancies - the rent can’t go up until the fixed term ends, unless the agreement includes a rent review clause

Landlords can only serve a Section 13 notice once per year.

And you can’t get a Section 13 notice in the first year of your tenancy.

Your landlord might ask you to agree to a rent increase informally first.

If you don’t agree, they can then serve a formal Section 13 notice.

To be valid, the notice must include: 

• the new rent amount the landlord wants
• the start date for the new rent
• instructions on what to do if you disagree with the increase

Yes.

The landlord must give at least: 

• one month’s notice if rent is due weekly or monthly
• three months’ notice if rent is due quarterly
• six months’ notice if rent is due yearly

The new rent must start on the first day of a rental period.

So if, for example, the tenancy started on the 5th, the new rent starts on the 5th as well.

If you agree to the new rental rate, your rent will go up from the date in the notice.

You’ll be legally required to pay the new amount from that date.

A Section 13 notice may not be valid if:

• you weren’t given the correct notice period
• the start date for the new rent is wrong

If that’s the case, you should tell your landlord that you think the notice is incorrect.

If they don’t agree, only a court can decide if the notice is valid.

You can apply to a tribunal to set a fair rent.

While the tribunal decides, your rent stays the same.

If you’re not happy with a Section 13 rent increase, there are steps you can take.

Firstly, check your tenancy agreement for rent review clauses.

It’s also worth researching similar properties nearby to see if the proposed rent is reasonable. 

Next, make sure you keep records of letters, emails and messages concerning the rent increase.

You can then apply to a First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), which can set a fair rent and protect you from overpaying.

If you’re hit with a rent increase and don’t think you can afford it, don’t ignore the notice.

Instead, talk to a housing charity like Shelter or a debt adviser early to explore options.

You may be able to negotiate a payment plan and get advice about other housing options.

They could also help you find out what benefits you might be entitled to claim that could help you cover the higher rent.