24 January 2024 , 15:48
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It's a tenant's worse nightmare: being told their rent is going up.
Amidst the cost-of-living crisis, cash-strapped Brits are struggling to get by, with soaring energy bills and sky high food prices. As a result, getting on the property ladder for some is seemingly impossible, and many are forced to live in rented accommodation.
But what are your rights if a private landlord tries to increase your rent - and what are the exact steps you should take? Last night, on the Martin Lewis Money Show, one man revealed his son's landlord wants to increase his rent by a staggering 71 per cent to £2,4000 per month. The landlord also wants to increase the man's deposit.
Finance expert and host of the show Martin Lewis was joined by Nadeem Kahn of the housing charity Shelter to help give the tenant some much-needed advice. Both described the situation as 'outrageous'.
Kahn made it very clear that no landlord can increase the deposit mid-tenancy. "When it comes to increasing your rent however, if you're in the fixed term of your contract it can only be increased if you have a rent review clause in your contract," he added.
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Once the fixed term is over, the landlord can increase rent but has to give legal notice and tenants can appeal that notice to a tribunal. "What the tribunal will do is set a rent based on what the market rates are for your area," Kahn explained. "So it's always worth researching what the local rates are for your area before going down that route."
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According to Shelter, there is no limit on agreed rent increases for assured shorthold tenants - and whilst renters don't have to agree to an increase, it could result in the landlord trying to end the tenancy. This is often done through a section 21 notice.
It is also worth noting that even if you express unhapiness at the increased rent, once you pay the higher amount it legally becomes your new rental price. For those fearing eviction, both Kahn and Lewis confirmed that landlords can issue an eviction without a legal reason. However, they will be unable to do so during a fixed term contract.
If you're worried about your rent, eviction, or are experiencing homelessness - get help here.