Renters’ Rights Act · day-to-day decisions

Rent increases, adverts and pet requests

Updated 16 October 2026 · England only

Several everyday actions now need a more deliberate process. A dated record of the advert, signed agreement, notice or tenant request helps you show what happened and when.

Rent increases

For an assured periodic tenancy, use the section 13 process: complete Form 4A and give at least two months’ notice. The government says rent cannot be increased more than once a year, and not in the first 12 months of a new tenancy. A tenant can challenge a proposal above the open-market rent.

Advertising and rental bidding

Publish an asking rent when advertising a property. Do not ask for, encourage or accept an offer above it. Save the dated advert and the agreed amount. Apply your criteria consistently and do not discriminate against applicants because they receive benefits or have children.

Rent before signing

The landlord overview says you cannot ask for, encourage or accept rent before landlord and tenant have signed the tenancy agreement. Keep the signed agreement and the payment date so the sequence is clear.

Pet requests

A tenant’s request must be in writing and describe the pet. Consent must not be unreasonably refused. The Act normally requires a written decision within 28 days; the timing can change where further information or a superior landlord’s consent is reasonably needed. If refusing, explain the decision and retain the evidence considered.