It is usually possible for a landlord to increase the rent but the increase must be done 'legally'. The legal rights of your landlord to increase the rent will depend upon the type of tenant you are and your tenancy agreement. If you think your landlord has unfairly increased the rent you should get advice from a Housing Adviser. Remember, the Adviser will need to see your tenancy agreement.
Below is a brief guide to rent increases. Not all tenancies and situations are covered, so for more detailed information check out the links to other websites or get advice.
Private Tenants
- Your landlord can usually increase the rent if you agree to the increase. If you begin to pay the rent at the increased amount, this can constitute an agreement in law.
- Your landlord may be able to increase your rent if there is a specific clause in the tenancy agreement that allows this to happen
- If you have a fixed term tenancy (eg for six months) the landlord cannot increase your rent until the end of the fixed term (unless you come to an agreement or there is a clause in the tenancy that allows an increase before the end of the fixed term)
- Some tenants (regulated tenants) pay 'fair rents'. These are fixed by a rent officer or Rent Assessment Committee and any increase your landlord may want to make is limited
Information on other websites
Shelter
Information about rent increases for private tenants including how much, when and how.
Adviceguide (Citizens Advice)
Information about rent increases for assured tenants, assured shorthold tenants, protected tenants and occupiers with basic protection
The Rent Service
The website of the Rent Service, the Government Agency that makes fair rent determinations
If you are unhappy about a rent increase proposed by your landlord, you can get advice by contacting our Online Adviser, sending us an email including
Council Tenants
The Council can increase your rent but must give you four weeks notice in writing. If you do not receive the notice and the Council cannot prove the notice was sent you may be able to challenge the rent increase. Get advice.
Housing Association Tenants
The rights of tenants of Housing Associations (or Registered Social Landlords) usually depend on when you moved into the property.
If your tenancy started before 15th January 1989 you will probably be a secure tenant and your rent will be protected by 'fair rent' controls. The rent cannot usually be increased more often than every two years.
If your tenancy started after 15th January 1989, you will probably be an assured tenant. You need to look at your tenancy agreement for details of rent increases.
Information on other websites
Adviceguide (Citizens Advice)
General information for Housing Association tenants including rent increases (if you use this link please scroll down the page to rights of assured tenants)
Need more help? Live in Manchester? Send us an email
Information Provider:
Manchester Advice
Date Reviewed:
23 October2008
This information is for guidance only and is not an authoritative statement on the law. Please read our Terms and Conditions.
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