What is a Section 13 notice?

A formal notice (Form 4) that a landlord serves to increase rent on a periodic assured tenancy. It must give at least one month's notice and can only be used once every 12 months.

Can landlords increase rent by agreement instead?

Yes. If the tenant agrees to the new rent in writing, no Section 13 notice is needed. This is common at renewal or after negotiation.

Can tenants challenge a Section 13 increase?

Yes. Tenants can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) before the increase takes effect. The tribunal decides the market rent for the property.

How often can rent be increased?

Once every 12 months via Section 13. There is no limit on frequency if the tenant agrees each time.

Do Section 13 rules apply during a fixed term?

During an existing fixed-term tenancy (pre-May 2026 lets), rent can only increase if the tenancy agreement allows it. After conversion to periodic, Section 13 applies.

Legislation & Reform8 min readLast reviewed 3 July 2026

Section 13 Rent Increases in England: Notice Rules and Limits

Under periodic tenancies, landlords in England must use Section 13 to increase rent. Learn notice periods, frequency limits, and tenant challenge rights.

England only. This guide applies to private rented property in England. Wales and Scotland have separate legal frameworks — dedicated guides will be published separately.

Key takeaways

Landlords can only increase rent on periodic tenancies via Section 13 notice or tenant agreement.
Informal rent rise clauses in tenancy agreements are not enforceable under the Renters' Rights Act.
Section 13 notices can be served once every 12 months with at least one month's notice.
Tenants can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
Agents must implement a formal rent review process tied to Section 13.

Why Section 13 matters now

With periodic tenancies becoming the default under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, landlords in England can no longer rely on fixed-term renewal negotiations or mid-term increase clauses. Rent rises on periodic tenancies must follow the Section 13 procedure in the Housing Act 1988.

Step	Who	Action
1	Landlord	Serve Form 4 with proposed rent
2	Tenant	Accept, negotiate, or challenge at tribunal
3	Tribunal	Sets market rent if challenged
4	Both	New rent takes effect from stated date

Section 13 Rent Increases in England: Notice Rules and Limits

Key takeaways

Why Section 13 matters now

Section 13 requirements

Tenant challenge at tribunal

Rent review process for agents

Frequently asked questions

Official sources

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