07/04/2026
š Whatās a Section 13 (Form 4) and why does it matter?
Thinking about increasing the rent the right way? Thatās where a Section 13 (Form 4) comes in. Itās the official, legal notice landlords use in England & Wales to propose a rent increase on a periodic tenancy (monthly or weekly). No awkward conversations, just a clear, formal process everyone can follow.
How it works (the simple version):
No need to use a āMemorandumā where both parties have to sign. This form just needs to be issued and accepted by the tenant. However, just to make you aware the āRenters Reform Billā will kick-in soon and Section 13 will be compulsory by May 2026.
⢠Use the prescribed Form 4 (this bitās important!) You can download it via: Gov.uk
⢠Give at least 1 monthās notice for monthly tenancies (or 6 months if itās yearly)
⢠You can only use it once every 12 months in a rolling contract
⢠Serve it properly by post, in person, or by email if the tenancy agreement allows it
š And for tenants?
They donāt have to just accept it blindly. If they think the increase isnāt fair, they can apply to the First-tier Tribunal before the new rent kicks in.
š Bottom line:
A Section 13; keeps things transparent, professional, and legal, protecting both landlords and tenants. Boring paperwork? Maybe. Peace of mind? Definitely.
Just a little something for investor lifeā¦