About Section 13: Notice of Rent Increase Form for UK Landlords

For landlords in England and Wales, understanding how and when to increase rent legally is crucial to maintaining a profitable rental property while staying compliant with the law. Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988 provides a formal mechanism for landlords to propose rent increases in assured periodic tenancies. 

This guide explains what Section 13 is, when and how landlords can use it, and best practices for implementing rent increases smoothly.

What Is a Section 13 Notice?

A Section 13 Notice is a formal legal document that a landlord must serve to a tenant when they intend to increase rent during a periodic tenancy (a tenancy that continues on a rolling basis, such as month-to-month). This form is the only legally recognised way for landlords to propose a rent increase without the tenant’s explicit agreement.

The notice serves as a safeguard for both landlords and tenants, ensuring that rent increases are fair, predictable, and legally compliant.

When Can a Landlord Use a Section 13 Notice?

A Section 13 Notice can be used in the following circumstances:

• The tenancy is periodic (i.e., rolling weekly, monthly, or yearly).
• The proposed rent increase does not take effect before the fixed-term tenancy ends.
• The tenant has been given at least the required notice period before the increase takes effect.
• The landlord has not increased the rent using Section 13 in the last 12 months.

When Not to Use a Section 13 Notice

Landlords cannot use a Section 13 Notice if:

• The tenant is still within a fixed-term tenancy (unless the tenancy agreement includes a rent review clause).
• A new rent amount has already been agreed upon with the tenant.
• There has already been a rent increase under Section 13 within the last 12 months.

How to Serve a Section 13 Notice

To increase the rent using Section 13, landlords must complete Form 4 – Notice Proposing a New Rent Under an Assured Periodic Tenancy. The process involves:

1. Filling Out the Section 13 Form 4

The landlord must complete the form with the following details:

• Tenant’s name and property address
• Current rent amount and proposed new rent
• Date when the new rent will take effect
• Landlord’s name and contact details

2. Giving the Tenant the Required Notice Period

The notice required to raise the rent in England and Wales depends on the tenancy type:

• Monthly tenancy – at least one month’s notice
• Weekly tenancy – at least one rental period’s notice (e.g., if rent is paid weekly, provide at least one week’s notice)
• Yearly tenancy – at least six months’ notice

3. Serving the Notice Properly

The notice must be in writing and can be delivered:

• In person
• By post (allowing extra time for delivery)
• By email (if permitted under the tenancy agreement)

To avoid disputes, landlords should keep proof of service, such as recorded delivery or written acknowledgment from the tenant.

Download Section 13 Form 4 Rent Increase Notice

Section 13 Rent Increase Notice Form 4.docx

What Happens After Serving a Section 13 Notice?

Tenant’s Right to Challenge the Rent Increase

Tenants who believe the new rent is unfair or excessive can challenge it by applying to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for England or the Rent Assessment Committee in Wales before the new rent takes effect. The tribunal will assess:

• The market rate for similar properties in the area
• The condition and amenities of the property
• Whether the increase is reasonable

If the tribunal determines that the proposed rent is too high, they may set a lower rent than the landlord proposed.

Accepting the New Rent

If the tenant agrees to the increase, they will start paying the new rent on the date specified in the Section 13 Notice. No further action is required from either party.

Best Practices for Increasing Rent Fairly

1. Research Market Rent Before Proposing an Increase

Before serving a Section 13 Notice, landlords should check local rental prices to ensure their proposed increase is reasonable and competitive. Websites like Zoopla, Rightmove, and local letting agents can provide useful market comparisons.

Related: 

2. Communicate With Tenants Before Serving the Notice

A sudden rent increase can cause disputes or even lead to tenants vacating the property. To prevent this:

• Discuss the increase informally before issuing a formal notice.
• Explain the reasons (e.g., rising maintenance costs, property improvements, inflation).
• Negotiate if needed, especially for long-term tenants.

3. Maintain Good Record-Keeping

Keeping records of rent reviews, notices served, and tenant communications will help if there is ever a dispute over rent increases.

4. Consider Using a Rent Review Clause in the Tenancy Agreement

Instead of relying on Section 13, landlords can include a rent review clause in the tenancy agreement. This clause allows for pre-agreed rent increases at set intervals without requiring a Section 13 Notice.

Final Words: Section 13 Rent Increase

Understanding Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988 is essential for UK landlords managing periodic tenancies. By following the correct legal process and maintaining clear communication with tenants, landlords can implement fair and lawful rent increases while minimising disputes.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Section 13

Can a Landlord Increase Rent More Than Once a Year?

No, a landlord can only increase rent using Section 13 once every 12 months for a periodic tenancy.

Can a Tenant Refuse a Section 13 Rent Increase?

Yes, tenants can refuse by challenging it at the First-tier Tribunal if they believe it is excessive.

What If a Tenant Doesn’t Pay the Increased Rent?

If the tenant refuses to pay but does not challenge it legally, the landlord may need to take action to recover unpaid rent or consider ending the tenancy following proper legal procedures.

Can a Landlord Use Section 13 for a Fixed-Term Tenancy?

No, rent increases during a fixed term must be either mutually agreed or dictated by a rent review clause in the contract.