A rent increase should never feel confrontational. When handled correctly, it can be a routine and transparent part of tenancy management.
Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, due to take effect from 1 May 2026, rent increases during an ongoing periodic or rolling tenancy will need to follow the statutory procedure set out in Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988. Contractual rent review clauses will no longer apply.
For landlords, this means that proof, paperwork and preparation will become central to ensuring increases are introduced smoothly and without dispute.
Related: Ending a tenancy under the Renters’ Rights Act: possession grounds for landlords from May 2026
Why documentation matters more under the new rules
From 1 May 2026, rent increases during a periodic or rolling tenancy will generally be limited to once in a 12-month period and must be proposed using the prescribed Section 13 notice.
The form itself is only one part of the process. Supporting evidence will be equally important.
Landlords should be prepared to demonstrate that:
- The tenancy is eligible for review
- The required notice period has been calculated correctly
- The proposed rent reflects local market conditions
- The effective date is compliant
Clear documentation reduces uncertainty for both landlord and tenant.
Proof of market value
Beyond correct paperwork, the proposed rent must also be supported by evidence.
Under the statutory framework, tenants retain the right to challenge a proposed increase if they believe it exceeds market value.
This makes evidence of comparable local properties essential. Recently agreed rents, similar property types and current demand levels all help support the proposed figure.
An increase that is clearly supported by local data is less likely to be disputed.
Avoiding unnecessary conflict
Even where the documentation is correct, communication remains important.
While the formal Section 13 notice will be required, landlords may benefit from explaining:
- Why the review is taking place
- How the new figure has been assessed
- When will the increase take effect
Transparency can help prevent misunderstandings and reduce the likelihood of formal challenges.
Related: A key change for self-managing landlords now in effect under the Renters’ Rights Act
The role of local councils in oversight
Alongside clear communication, regulatory compliance remains essential.
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 reinforces the role of local councils in overseeing compliance within the private rented sector. Rent increases that rely on outdated contractual clauses or fail to follow the statutory process may attract scrutiny.
Accurate paperwork and clear records provide reassurance that the correct procedure has been followed.
A structured and compliant approach from 1 May 2026
The move to a once-per-year statutory process is designed to formalise rent reviews, not to prevent them.
For landlords, the focus should now be on:
- Tracking tenancy timelines carefully
- Preparing market evidence in advance
- Completing Section 13 notices accurately
- Retaining copies of all relevant documentation
Handled properly, a rent increase can remain a straightforward part of property management.
Lovelle works with landlords to review local rental levels, prepare statutory notices correctly and ensure documentation is clear and compliant under the new framework.
If you are considering a rent review ahead of 1 May 2026, your local Lovelle branch can help you approach the process with clarity and peace of mind.
