Check If Your Rent Increase Is Legal

What Changed on 1 May 2026?

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 introduced significant changes to rental law in England:

• Section 21 abolished: No-fault evictions are no longer allowed
• Periodic tenancies mandatory: All new tenancies are rolling contracts
• Rent increase limits: Landlords can only increase rent once per 12-month period
• Two months' notice required: Landlords must give tenants two months' written notice
• Rent bidding banned: Landlords cannot invite or encourage rent bidding wars

Notice Period Requirements

Under the new rules, landlords must provide:

• A minimum of two months' written notice before any rent increase
• The notice must be served using the official prescribed form
• The increase cannot take effect during the first 12 months of a tenancy
• At least 12 months must pass between any rent increases

Challenging Rent Increases

Tenants can challenge rent increases by:

• Applying to the First-tier Tribunal if they believe the increase is excessive
• Comparing the proposed rent to similar properties in the area
• Checking if proper notice procedures were followed
• Ensuring the 12-month waiting period has been observed

What This Means for Tenants

The new Act provides significantly stronger protection for renters:

• More predictable rent increases (maximum once per year)
• Better notice periods to plan finances
• Protection from retaliatory evictions
• Right to challenge excessive increases

Law effective from: 1 May 2026
Applies to: All tenancies in England
Sources: Renters' Rights Act 2025,Shelter guidance