Updated July 2026 for the Renters’ Rights Act. Since 1 May 2026, a Section 13 notice is the only lawful way to increase rent on an assured tenancy in England. This guide walks through how to complete and serve it correctly so the increase stands up. For the rules behind it (how often, how much), see increasing rent during a tenancy.
What is a Section 13 notice?
A Section 13 notice (under the Housing Act 1988) is the statutory form a landlord uses to propose a new rent on a periodic assured tenancy. It must be given on the prescribed form (Form 4) and gives the tenant at least two months’ notice of the new rent.
Before you serve it — check you’re eligible
- It has been at least 12 months since the last increase (or the start of the tenancy).
- Your proposed rent is in line with market rents for a similar local property.
- You are giving at least two months’ notice before the new rent starts.
How to complete the Section 13 notice, step by step
- Download the current prescribed form (Form 4) from GOV.UK — using an out-of-date form can invalidate the notice.
- Enter the tenant(s) and property details exactly as on the tenancy.
- State the new rent and the date it will take effect — at least two months ahead, and aligned to the start of a rental period.
- Sign and date the notice (all landlords named on the tenancy, or an agent on their behalf).
- Serve it on the tenant and keep proof of service and a dated copy.
After you serve it
If the tenant accepts, the new rent applies from the stated date. If they think it’s above market, they can refer it to the First-tier Tribunal before the new rent begins. The tribunal will set the market rent but cannot set it higher than you proposed, and the increase cannot be backdated to before its decision. You can only serve one Section 13 notice every 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
Which form do I use for a Section 13 rent increase?
Form 4, the prescribed “Landlord’s notice proposing a new rent”. Always download the current version from GOV.UK.
How much notice does a Section 13 notice need?
At least two months before the new rent takes effect, and no more than once every 12 months.
Can the tenant refuse the increase?
They can challenge it at the First-tier Tribunal, which determines the market rent (never above your proposed figure). They cannot simply ignore a valid, unchallenged notice.
Written by the Landlords Portal team — experienced UK landlords covering the private rented sector. This article is general information, not legal advice.
