Rent rises can easily catch tenants off guard, especially if they come without warning or explanation. For landlords, keeping up with rising costs — from repairs to mortgages — often makes a rent review feel necessary. So, where is the middle ground? Understanding how the rules work in the UK helps both sides manage expectations. For those navigating the local rental market, speaking with the best letting agents in Hove is often a good first step.
The truth is that rent increases are not always about profit. Sometimes they are about practicality. But there are rules to follow — and rights to respect.
Why do rents go up?
Sometimes it is inflation. Sometimes it is demand from locals. Other times, it is the maintenance cost for an older property or matching the current rate for the area.
Landlords are not free to increase the rent on every occasion they like. Alternatively, tenants cannot expect the rent to stay the same forever. It is about balance—and legality. A landlord would want to raise the rent with growing costs; however, that does not imply they could do it in a single day or without the right process.
Fixed-term or rolling tenancy? It matters:
Whether a rent increase is allowed depends on what kind of tenancy agreement is in place.
If you are in a fixed-term tenancy (say, 12 months), the rent usually cannot be changed unless there is a specific clause that allows it. Otherwise, any change would need to wait until the fixed period ends and a new agreement begins.
If you are on a rolling tenancy (also known as a periodic tenancy), things work a little differently. In most cases, landlords can raise the rent once a year — but they need to give at least a month’s notice, and it must be in writing.
No matter the tenancy type, the increase must be fair and justifiable. And that’s not just good practice — it is the law.
What the law says about notice:
Landlords cannot raise the rent immediately and inform the tenants directly. There is a standard process to approach it. For periodic tenancies, landlords should serve a Section 13 notice—a specific legal document that mentions the new rent and when it starts.
The minimum notice duration is one month; however, many landlords give longer durations to avoid friction. For fixed-term tenancies, until a rent review clause is in place, the landlord needs to wait till the agreement ends, after which they can renegotiate the phrases for the following period.
It is not just simple paperwork—it is safety for each party. A proper notice gives tenants time to decide, ask questions, or task the alternate if it feels unfair.
Challenging a rent increase:
If you are a tenant and believe the proposed increase is excessive, you can challenge it — but it must be done properly.
In England, disputes go through the First-tier Tribunal. It is free to apply, and the tribunal looks at local market rents to decide whether the increase is reasonable. Their decision is final.
That said, this route is best used as a last resort. In most cases, tenants and landlords are better off having an open conversation first. Often, a fair compromise can be found without escalating things.
Communication makes all the difference:
Landlords who explain the rent rise—whether it is rising costs, market shifts, or property upgrades—are likely to get know from tenants. And tenants who increase worries early, rather than ready or ignoring notices, typically locate landlords inclined to listen.
Letting agents can assist here, neutral go-between and making sure they are aware of where they stand. In complex situations, they could keep matters calm and professional.
Is there rent control in the UK?
The UK does not have rent caps. However, some parts of the country, like Scotland, have introduced rent pressure zones, which limit increases in certain high-demand areas.
Elsewhere, the market still sets the price. That is why it is important to check what comparable properties are charging. If you are a landlord, raising rent far beyond local averages could leave you without a tenant. If you are renting, understanding the going rate helps you judge whether an increase is reasonable.
Online platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla are useful for comparisons. Local agents often provide a clearer picture, especially when pricing fluctuates from street to street.
A few things to keep in mind:
For landlords:
- Make sure the rent increase is allowed under the tenancy agreement.
- Use the proper legal process — no shortcuts.
- Be transparent. If costs have gone up, explain it.
- Think long-term. Keeping a reliable tenant often matters more than an extra £25 a month.
For tenants:
- Do not ignore a notice. Ask questions if you are unsure.
- Keep paying your rent while you explore your options.
- Compare similar properties. If you feel the increase is out of line, check your rights.
- Do not be afraid to speak up — but stay respectful.
Wrapping up:
Rent rises are never anyone’s favourite topic—however, they are part of how the estate market works. The important thing is dealing with them properly.
For landlords, following the law and being affordable builds higher relationships and longer tenancies. For tenants, understanding your rights takes away a number of the uncertainties.
In the end, it is not winning or losing. It is knowing your position, understanding the rules, and identifying the better solution that works for everyone. And if things still feel unclear, reaching out to a trusted letting agent or local housing advisor can often make all the difference.
