Challenging a Rent Increase at the Tribunal

Your landlord can increase rent only once a year, with no increase in the first year of the tenancy. They must give at least 2 months' notice using a completed Form 4A (the section 13 process). Notice can be given in person, by post, or by email if your tenancy agreement allows it. source

Rent review clauses that allow increases outside this process cannot be used for new increases after 1 May 2026. source

Apply online, or send Form MR1 to the residential property office for your region. Apply before the new rent start date in the notice, even if you are still gathering evidence. The fee is £47, with no fee if the notice is dated before 1 May 2026 or you live in a social rented property. Help with fees may be available. source

Check the notice gives at least 2 months' notice (1 month if given before 1 May 2026), is not within 52 weeks of the last increase, has the correct start date and tenant details, is on the right form and is signed. If the tribunal finds the notice invalid you do not have to pay the proposed rent. source

The landlord can respond on Form MR2 within 28 days and you can reply on Form MR3. The tribunal often decides on paperwork but may hold an inspection or hearing. The new rent usually starts from the date in the notice, or the next payment date after the decision if later. source

Give property details (layout, room sizes, photos, features, repairs and improvements) and rents for similar nearby properties. Agreed lettings are stronger evidence than agent or listing-site asking prices. Local Housing Allowance rates and housing association rents carry less weight. source

The Tribunal can defer an increase by up to a further 2 months in cases of undue hardship. To ask, give full details of your finances and explain the hardship. source