Section 13 Notice
The only lawful way to raise rent on an assured periodic tenancy. One increase per 12 months with at least one month's notice. Tenant can refer to the First-tier Tribunal which can cap the rent at market rate.
At a glance
- Cadence
- Once in any 12-month period
- Minimum notice
- 1 month
- Tribunal cap
- Open-market rent
Full guide
Read the complete landlord guide on Section 13 Notice
Deadlines, fines and step-by-step compliance in our in-depth resource.
Open full guideWhy Section 13 Notice matters for landlords
Section 13 is the only way to raise rent on an assured periodic tenancy — a mid-tenancy "letter suggesting a new rent" has no legal effect unless served as Section 13. The tribunal route is real and tenants use it: always support the proposed rent with 3–5 Rightmove comparables dated within 30 days of service.
Official sources
LetCompliance editorial reviews this entry every quarter against the sources above. Always confirm specific duties with a qualified solicitor or your local council.
Related terms
Rent Increase Notice (Section 13)
A notice under Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988 used to increase rent on an assured periodic tenancy. Requires at least one month's notice and can only be used once in any 12-month period. Tenants can challenge the increase at the First-tier Tribunal.
Section 21 Notice
The no-fault eviction notice under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. Abolished for new notices from 1 May 2026 under the Renters Rights Act 2025. Landlords must now use Section 8 with a specified ground.
Section 8 Notice
A possession notice served under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988 citing a specific ground. From 1 May 2026 this is the only route to possession in England. Common grounds: Ground 1 (landlord moving in), Ground 1A (sale), Ground 8 (3 months' arrears).
Accelerated Possession
A fast-track court procedure used under a Section 21 notice in England and Wales. Abolished for new claims from 1 May 2026 because Section 21 no longer exists. Possession is now pursued under Section 8 using a specified ground.
BTL (Buy-to-Let)
A mortgage product and business model where a property is purchased specifically to rent out. Buy-to-let landlords are subject to Section 24 of the Finance Act 2015, which replaced mortgage interest relief with a 20% tax credit. Stamp duty is higher on a second property.
Disrepair
A property condition falling below legal standards under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 or the Decent Homes Standard. Tenants can sue for damages and specific performance, and a valid disrepair claim is a complete defence to a possession claim.