My landlord raised my rent without proper notice, is this legal?

The rules on rent increases depend on what stage your tenancy is at. During a fixed-term tenancy, your rent can only be increased if: (1) your tenancy agreement contains a rent review clause specifying when and how rent can be increased; or (2) you agree to an increase in writing. A landlord cannot unilaterally raise rent mid-fixed-term without these conditions being met.

Once your tenancy has become a periodic tenancy (rolling month-to-month or week-to-week after the fixed term), the landlord must follow a formal process. Under section 13 of the Housing Act 1988, they must serve a valid notice of increase using the prescribed Form 4 (Notice proposing a new rent). The notice must give at least one month's notice for monthly tenancies (or one week for weekly tenancies) and must specify a start date that is the first day of a new rental period.

If the proposed rent is higher than the open market rate, you have the right to refer the matter to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) before the increase takes effect. The tribunal will assess whether the proposed rent reflects the market rent and can adjust it.

You do not have to accept an invalid or informal rent increase. Write to your landlord explaining that proper Form 4 notice has not been served and that you will pay the existing rent until valid notice is given. Keep all correspondence.

From 2025, under the Renters' Rights Act, rent increases for periodic tenancies will be further regulated — only one increase per year will be permitted and the tribunal referral process will be strengthened.