Landlord guide
Section 13 notices and Form 4A: how to increase rent properly.
A practical guide for private landlords in England who want to increase rent using the correct notice route and reduce the risk of mistakes.
What is a Section 13 notice?
A Section 13 notice is the formal route for proposing a rent increase for a periodic assured tenancy in England. The prescribed notice is Form 4A.
The notice tells the tenant the proposed new rent and the date it should start. The tenant has the right to challenge the increase if they believe it is above market level.
The basic process
Check the tenancy
Make sure Section 13 is the correct route for the tenancy and that there has not been another increase too recently.
Choose a realistic market rent
Compare the property against similar homes currently available or recently let in the local area.
Complete Form 4A
Use the correct landlord, tenant, property, current rent, proposed rent and start date details.
Serve the notice
Send or deliver the notice correctly and keep proof of service.
Prepare for questions
Be ready to explain how the proposed rent was reached, especially if the increase is significant.
How to serve your notice correctly
You must be able to show that the notice was properly served to the tenant. Keep a copy of the notice and evidence of how it was sent or delivered.
- Deliver in person with confirmation where possible
- Send by post with proof of postage
- Keep a copy of the completed notice
- Record the date and method of service
Keeping evidence of service helps protect your position if the increase is challenged.
Don’t just serve and hope
The rent figure matters. A realistic market rent backed by evidence is easier to explain to the tenant and more useful if challenged.
Is this right for you?
This is suitable if:
- You have a private tenancy in England
- You want to increase rent using Section 13
- You want a compliant notice quickly
This may not be suitable if:
- The tenancy situation is complex or disputed
- The property is not a standard private let
- You require formal legal advice
Create the notice for free. Add market evidence before you serve.
Generate the Form 4A notice and choose whether to support the rent with a £60 agent-backed comparables report.
Create Free Notice