How to increase the rent in England in 2026

Last updated June 2026

Step 1 — Check you're allowed to increase yet

You can increase the rent once every 12 months. If you've raised it within the last year — or the tenancy began less than a year ago — you'll need to wait. The clock runs from the date of the last increase, not the anniversary of the tenancy.

Step 2 — Decide the new rent

There's no cap, but the practical ceiling is the open-market rent. Check comparable local listings. Remember the tenant can challenge an above-market figure at the First-tier Tribunal, and the tribunal can only keep your figure or lower it — never raise it.

Step 3 — Complete Form 4A and set a valid date

Use the current Form 4A. The new rent must start at least two months after you serve the notice, and on the start of a tenancy period (usually your rent day). Our tool works out the earliest lawful date automatically.

Step 4 — Serve it and keep proof

Serve the notice by a method your tenancy agreement allows and keep evidence of when. If you post it, allow two working days for service. The burden of proving valid service is on you, so don't skip the proof.

Step 5 — Know how the tenant can respond

The tenant can accept and pay the new rent, or refer it to the tribunal before the start date. If they do nothing and the notice is valid, the new rent takes effect on the date stated.