If you're a private landlord in Cornwall or West Devon, it's essential to understand how rent increases will be handled under the new tenancy rules. The Renters' Rights Act removes the old routes; Section 13 will be the only legal way to raise rent during a tenancy.
Most landlords are familiar with increasing rent in one of two ways:
Renewing a fixed-term tenancy at a higher monthly rent, or
Using a rent review clause in the tenancy agreement often linked to inflation (RPI or CPI).
Under the Renters’ Rights Act, both methods have been scrapped. With all tenancies becoming periodic by default, there’ll be no new fixed terms to renegotiate and rent clauses, no matter how clearly worded, won’t be enforceable.
Instead, all rent increases must be made using a statutory Section 13 notice. This notice sets out the new rent, the date it takes effect, and gives the tenant a chance to challenge it via tribunal if they believe it’s unreasonable.
Section 13 will be the only legal way for private landlords in Cornwall, West Devon, and across England to raise rent. If you haven’t used it before, now’s the time to understand how it works.
A Section 13 rent increase notice is only valid if it follows the prescribed format, gives tenants the correct amount of notice, and sets a new rent that reflects current market value.
Here’s what landlords need to know:
You can only serve one Section 13 notice every 12 months.
The new rent must be reasonable, based on similar local properties.
The notice must use the official government form.
Tenants can challenge the increase at the First Tier Tribunal and they’re likely to win if the rent is excessive.
At present, one month’s notice is required but this will increase to two months once the Renters' Rights Act takes effect on the 1st May 2026.
The Section 13 process is simple in theory, but easy to get wrong. Even a small error could invalidate the notice, delay the increase, or trigger a tribunal that shines a spotlight on your property’s compliance.
Now is the time to review your rent levels especially if you haven’t increased rent in the past year (or longer).
Many landlords across Cornwall and West Devon are under-rented, and a well-timed Section 13 notice can help bring things back in line before tighter rules come in.
Here’s when to consider action:
Your tenant has been in place for 12+ months
You haven’t increased rent recently
The market rate has risen since the tenancy began
Your mortgage or costs have increased
You’re considering stepping back from self-management and want the rent to support that shift
Just remember: if you get it wrong, the increase may be delayed or rejected entirely. That’s where we come in.
If you're not sure where to start, or just want peace of mind that your rent increase will hold up, we’re here to help.
We’ll review your tenancy, check your rent history, and prepare a compliant Section 13 notice if needed.
And if you're ready to hand it over completely? Our full management service includes rent reviews, legal notices, inspections, and compliance checks - all handled for you.
