Landlord possession actions were halted when the country went into lockdown in March 2020, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the aim of easing the financial pressure on struggling families and individuals. Following the lift on restrictions, the number of tenants evicted from private rented homes across England has seen a peak, although figures are still falling short of pre-pandemic levels. Shelter, a charity which provides housing support, has reported that in England 1 in 12 private renters find themselves under the threat of an eviction with 1 in 4 renters consistently struggling to pay their rent.
The current cost of living crisis has impacted not only on tenants but landlords who are finding themselves under financial pressure. With interest rates on mortgages increasing, homeowners are facing higher costs. Tenants may find themselves in situations where their landlords are wanting to increase their rent. Legally landlords can only do this in certain situations or where the tenant agrees to the rise in rent. It is possible for a tenant to challenge or even refuse the rent increase. In the UK, eviction is a classed as a civil process whereby a landlord can legally remove a tenant from a rental property. This process can take a few months and landlords will have to give notice to their tenant of the planned eviction. The amount of notice that a landlord is required to give to the tenant will vary depending on the type of tenancy agreement in place.
What can you do if you do not agree with the increase in rent?
If you do not wish to agree to the rent increase demanded by your landlord, the initial approach that you can take is to seek to negotiate with them. Try to reach an agreement on a lower rental figure by writing to them and clearly identifying the sum that you feel would be reasonable and are willing to pay. If the attempt to reach an agreement by negotiation fails and you find yourself in a position facing eviction you should seek legal advice. A legal professional will be able to advise you of your rights as a tenant and can help you to challenge the proceedings.
Article by Lizzie Skinner, Trainee Solicitor, North Walsham Branch.
If you would like to seek advice on any family law issue, please contact our dedicated Client Relations Team on 01603 693510 or email us using the 'Make an enquiry' form on our website.
*This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or other professional advice.
