The Complete Guide to Rent Increases in 2026: What UK Landlords Need to Know

Rent increases are one of the most searched property management topics heading into 2026, and it’s easy to see why. Rising costs, changing legislation and tenant affordability all play a part. For landlords, understanding how and when you can increase rent legally is essential if you want to protect your income while keeping good tenants on side. This guide explains how rent increases work in 2026, what’s changing in England, and how to approach them sensibly and compliantly.

Rent increases in England from 1 May 2026

From 1 May 2026, rent increases in England will follow a clearer statutory process. Landlords will generally need to use the formal Section 13 rent increase procedure for periodic tenancies. This means increases must be fair, evidence-based and supported by the correct notice.

Key points landlords in England should know:

• Rent increases can usually only be applied once every 12 months
• A minimum of two months’ notice must be given before the new rent starts
• The increase must reflect market rent, not simply rising mortgage costs
• Tenants have the right to challenge the increase if they believe it is unreasonable

Getting the timing or paperwork wrong can delay the increase or invalidate it entirely, which is why many landlords choose to work with a professional property management company.

What about Wales and Northern Ireland?

Rules differ depending on where your rental property is located.

Wales

Under the Renting Homes (Wales) framework, landlords must use the correct prescribed notice to increase rent. Rent can normally only be increased once in a 12-month period, and at least two months’ notice is required. As with England, increases must be reasonable and reflect the local market.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, rent increases are also limited to once every 12 months. Landlords must give at least three months’ written notice. While there is no fixed cap on increases, they should still be justifiable if questioned.

If you own a property to let, it’s important to follow the rules that apply to that specific country, not assume the same process applies everywhere.

How to increase rent without losing good tenants

One of the biggest mistakes landlords make is treating rent increases as purely transactional. In reality, how you handle the process can directly affect tenant retention and long-term returns.

Here are some practical tips that work well in day-to-day property management.

Base the increase on evidence

Before proposing a rent increase, review:

• Similar properties currently advertised as a property to rent
• Recent lets for comparable homes nearby
• Improvements or upgrades made since the tenant moved in

A modest, well-explained increase is far more likely to be accepted than a sudden jump with no context.

Communicate early

Even though the increase must be served formally, a friendly conversation or email beforehand can make a big difference. Let tenants know:

• When the review is coming
• Why the rent is increasing
• When it will take effect

Clear communication often prevents disputes before they start.

Make sure the property justifies the rent

Tenants are more accepting of increases when the property is well maintained. Simple actions help:

• Deal with repairs promptly
• Address mould or ventilation issues
• Keep communal areas clean and safe
• Ensure all legal certificates are up to date

This is where a proactive letting agent can add real value.

Think long term

A slightly lower increase that keeps a reliable tenant is often better than pushing to the top of the market and facing a void period. Consistent income usually beats short-term gains.

Rent levels and local demand

When marketing a property to rent, pricing must reflect current tenant demand, not just national trends. Local factors such as transport links, schools, amenities and condition all influence what tenants are willing to pay.

At The Letting Experts, we help landlords balance compliance, market rent and tenant relationships. As a hands-on property management company, our role is to make rent reviews straightforward, fair and stress-free.

If you’re unsure how much rent you can charge in 2026, or you want help managing a rent increase properly, speak to The Letting Experts today. Call 0333 344 9915 or email hello@thelettingexperts.co.uk for practical advice from a local letting agent.

In the meantime, we've answered your common questions about rent increases in 2026.

FAQs

How often can I increase rent in England in 2026?

In most cases, rent can only be increased once every 12 months using the statutory process.

How much notice do I need to give for a rent increase?

In England and Wales, landlords must usually give at least two months’ notice. In Northern Ireland, three months’ notice is required.

Can tenants challenge a rent increase?

Yes. Tenants can challenge an increase if they believe it is above market rent, so evidence is important.

Should I increase rent every year?

Not necessarily. Some landlords choose smaller, less frequent increases to retain good tenants and reduce voids.

Do I need a letting agent to manage rent increases?

You don’t have to, but many landlords prefer using a letting agent to ensure the process is compliant and professionally handled.