When it comes to rent increases, landlords cannot just impose a rent increase whenever without warning. After 1 May 2026, rent increases are becoming more regulated due to the enforcement of the Renters Rights Act 2026. The new laws that are commencing on this date state that rent is only to be increased once per year. This means that landlords cannot give their tenants multiple increases within a short period of time.

This law is predicted to help tenants all across the UK; feeling less worried about whether they are going to be able to afford their rent next month. With a longer fixed rent period tenants are able to plan their expenditure and prevent them from falling into rent arrears and debt. Landlords and agents are also being obliged to give all tenants at least two months’ notice prior to the rent increase date. This has to be done formally through the use of a Section 13 notice (Form 4A).

If a tenant currently has a rent review clause in their tenancy, it will not be valid after 1 May 2026, and this new structure will apply.

The Renters’ Rights Act also does not give a fixed percentage cap on private rent, but to keep rent increases realistic and manageable, the law states that the rent has to reflect market value. If it does not, tenants are given the right to challenge it.

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