How Much Notice to Increase Rent UK?
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For periodic tenancies using Section 13, you must give at least one month's notice, or one rental period if you pay rent less frequently than monthly. For yearly tenants, this means 6 months' notice.
Getting the notice period right is essential. Too short and your notice is invalid. Here's how the rules work.
How much notice for rent increase?
The minimum notice for Section 13 rent increases is one month, or one rental period if that's longer. The new rent cannot take effect any earlier than this period after you serve the notice.
| Payment frequency | Minimum notice |
|---|---|
| Weekly | One month |
| Monthly | One month |
| Quarterly | One quarter (3 months) |
| Yearly | Six months |
Does it depend on tenancy type?
Section 13 applies to periodic tenancies. For fixed-term tenancies, you can only increase rent if there's a rent review clause in the agreement, or if the tenant agrees in writing.
After the Renters' Rights Act takes effect, all tenancies become periodic, and Section 13 becomes the standard (and only) way to increase rent.
What if I pay rent quarterly?
If rent is paid quarterly, the minimum notice is one quarter—three months. The rule is one rental period or one month, whichever is longer.
This matters for some commercial-style ASTs or longer periodic tenancies. Most residential tenancies are monthly, so one month applies.
When does the notice period start?
The notice period runs from when you serve the notice, not from a particular day in the rental period. The new rent must start on a rent day (the day rent is usually due).
For example, if rent is due on the 1st of each month and you serve notice on 15 January, the earliest the new rent can apply is 1 March (the first rent day at least one month away).
Frequently asked questions
Can I give more than the minimum notice?
Yes. Giving more notice is fine and often appreciated by tenants. You just can't give less than the statutory minimum.
What if I don't use Section 13?
Outside Section 13, you'd need tenant agreement to any rent change. Without Section 13 or a rent review clause, you have no mechanism to impose an increase on an unwilling tenant.
Does the tenant have to agree?
Not under Section 13. The increase happens automatically unless the tenant refers it to a tribunal within 28 days. If they don't challenge it, the new rent applies from the stated date.
Managing this yourself?
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LandlordOS tip
Serve rent increase notices with plenty of lead time. Rushing to meet a specific date often leads to errors. Give yourself a buffer—if you want rent to increase from October, serve in July or August, not September.