Can My Landlord Raise My Rent?

It’s no secret that rents are rising, but can your landlord raise your rent?

The answer is, yes, they can. But, landlords cannot raise your rent as and when they like. All rent increases must follow the relevant rules and regulations here in the UK.

We have plenty of information to keep you in the know. Keep reading if you’ve been asking if and when can your landlord raise your rent!

First, you need to know what rental agreement you have with your landlord.

Rental Agreements AST (Assured Short hold Tenancy) are the most common type of rental agreement. These are often fixed-term tenancies that run for a set period, usually 6 months or 1 year. There are also periodic tenancies that roll on a week by week or month by month basis.  

Given that AST is the most common type of rental agreement, this is the tenancy on which our answers focus.

How often can a landlord raise my rent in the UK?                                     For periodic tenancies, landlords can only raise the rent once per year. For fixed-term tenancies, the landlord can only raise the rent if both parties agree. Unless otherwise agreed, your landlord can only increase the rent after the end of your lease period.

Your landlord could raise the rent if there is a rent review clause included in your rental agreement. Even then, the raise must be fair and realistic.

You can challenge your rent increase if you feel that it is neither fair nor realistic. Your first course of action should always be to discuss the matter with your landlord. But, you can reach out to a tribunal for assistance if you cannot settle the issue.

Can my landlord raise my rent without notice?                                 Landlords are always required, by law, to give tenants notice of any rent raises. The necessary notice period varies from a months notice for weekly or monthly rental agreements to 6 months notice for yearly tenancies.

These periods of notice must also comply with other regulations. For example, they must be reasonable and agreed upon by both the renter and the landlord.

How much can my landlord increase my rent every year in the UK? Most rent increases are in line with inflation, typically between 3 and 5% per year. Landlords should only raise rents according to what is fair and realistic. Your rent shouldn't be rocketing.    

You can check similarly sized rental properties located in your area if you are uncertain. These rentals should give you a better idea of average prices, so you'll know if your rent raise is fair.

You can dispute a rent raise, even if you have agreed to an increase (verbally or in a contract). It is free to ask a tribunal to decide if a rent increase is fair and legal.

It is important to note that paying an increased rent may be viewed as agreeing to the raise.

So, are landlords allowed to raise the rent?
Your landlord cannot arbitrarily raise your rent. There are rules to prevent unfair rent raises.

Remember, your landlord must give you notice. Both parties must agree to rent raises. All rent increases must be fair and realistic.