Rent reviews work best when they are planned carefully rather than approached at the last minute. Clear timelines, accurate documentation and thoughtful communication all play a role in ensuring the process runs smoothly.
With the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 due to take effect on 1 May 2026, landlords will need to follow the statutory Section 13 procedure under the Housing Act 1988 when increasing rent during a periodic or rolling tenancy. That makes preparation more important than ever.
A structured approach to notice, communication and record-keeping will help avoid delay and unnecessary complications.
Related: From Notice to Possession: Mullucks’ Step-by-Step Guide to Ending Tenancies after May 2026
Step 1: Confirm eligibility and timing
Before proposing any increase, confirm:
- The tenancy is periodic or rolling
- At least 12 months have passed since the last rent increase took effect
- The intended start date complies with statutory notice requirements
Serving notice too early or miscalculating dates may invalidate the process. Checking eligibility first avoids unnecessary delay.
Step 2: Review local market evidence
Once eligibility is confirmed, the next consideration is the proposed amount.
The proposed rent must reflect local market conditions at the time of review.
Gather evidence such as:
- Comparable local rental listings
- Recently agreed rents for similar properties
- Current demand levels in the area
If the proposed figure aligns with market evidence, it is less likely to be challenged.
Step 3: Prepare the correct Section 13 notice
With the proposed figure established, attention should turn to documentation.
A Section 13 notice must be completed accurately. It should:
- State the new proposed rent clearly
- Confirm the effective date
- Allow the required minimum notice period
Errors in the form or missing information may render the notice invalid.
Taking time to review the documentation before service reduces the risk of having to restart the process.
Step 4: Serve notice correctly
Once prepared, the notice must be served properly.
Landlords should ensure:
- The notice is delivered in accordance with the tenancy terms
- The date of service is recorded
- Evidence of service is retained
Clear records of when and how notice was served can be important if questions arise later.
Step 5: Communicate clearly with the tenant
Alongside formal service, communication should remain professional and transparent.
Explaining:
- Why the review is taking place
- How the proposed figure was assessed
- When will the change take effect
can help maintain a constructive landlord and tenant relationship.
An increase that is clearly explained is often easier to manage than one introduced without context.
Related: What Landlords Need to Know Now: Renters’ Rights Act Enforcement Began on 27 December 2025
Step 6: Maintain accurate records
Finally, ensure that all documentation is retained.
Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, local councils will have a stronger role in overseeing compliance within the private rented sector. Clear records will therefore become increasingly important.
Landlords should retain:
- Copies of the Section 13 notice
- Evidence supporting the proposed rent
- Records of service
- Correspondence relating to the review
Accurate records help demonstrate that the increase was implemented correctly and in line with statutory requirements.
Taking a measured approach from 1 May 2026
Taken together, these steps provide a structured framework for reviewing rent under the new system. Section 13 is intended to provide a transparent structure for rent increases, not to prevent them. With careful preparation, the process can be straightforward.
From 1 May 2026, landlords who follow a clear step-by-step approach will be better placed to avoid procedural errors and unnecessary disputes.
Mullucks works with landlords to review rental levels, prepare statutory notices and ensure documentation is handled properly.
If you are planning a rent review, your local Mullucks branch can help you navigate the process carefully and ensure each stage is completed correctly.
