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Rent reviews for landlords: evidence and comparables explained
- Inspired Management and Lettings
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
Rent reviews have always been something many landlords approach cautiously.
A tenancy might be running smoothly, the tenant pays on time, and the last thing a landlord wants is to create tension or uncertainty by raising the subject of rent. As a result, rents often go unchanged for years.
With the proposed changes under the Renters’ Rights Act, rent reviews are coming into sharper focus — not because landlords can’t review rent, but because how rent is reviewed, and how it’s evidenced, will matter more than ever.
A calm reminder: rent reviews aren’t going away
There’s been a lot of discussion about what the Renters’ Rights Act may mean for rent increases. While some of the detail is still being worked through, one thing is clear:
Landlords will still be able to review rent.
What’s changing is the emphasis on:
Transparency
Fairness
And being able to demonstrate that a rent reflects the local market
This isn’t about scaremongering or assuming the worst — it’s about recognising the direction of travel and responding sensibly.
Why evidence is becoming more important
Under the new framework, tenants are expected to have clearer routes to challenge rent increases they believe are unreasonable.
That doesn’t mean landlords shouldn’t increase rent when appropriate — but it does mean that having evidence to support a figure is key.
Good evidence might include:
Comparable local rental listings
Recent let prices for similar properties
The size, condition, and features of the property
Any improvements or changes since the last review
A rent increase that’s supported by clear comparables is far easier to explain, justify, and stand by if questions are raised.
Research doesn’t mean chasing the highest rent
There’s an assumption that rent reviews are always about pushing rent to the maximum possible level. In reality, many landlords simply want to ensure their rent is:
Reasonable
In line with the local market
Sustainable for the long term
Looking at comparables doesn’t automatically mean increasing rent — sometimes it confirms that the current rent is already appropriate.
Either way, knowledge puts landlords in a stronger position.
Why regular reviews are often easier than long gaps
When rent hasn’t been reviewed for several years, any change — even a modest one — can feel more significant.
Regular, measured reviews:
Reduce the likelihood of sudden large increases
Help tenants understand that rent is reviewed as a matter of course
Make conversations calmer and more predictable
Even if no increase is applied, reviewing rent periodically helps landlords stay informed and plan ahead.
Process matters as much as price
Under the Renters’ Rights Act, rent increases are expected to follow a clear, structured process.
That means:
Using the correct notice
Giving the required notice period
Ensuring increases are applied correctly
Keeping records that show how a figure was reached
Getting this right protects landlords just as much as tenants.
A sensible way to approach rent reviews going forward
For most landlords, the most practical approach is:
Stay informed, but don’t panic
Base decisions on evidence, not headlines
Review rent periodically, even if no change is made
Keep communication clear and professional
This approach works under the current rules — and will continue to work as new legislation beds in.
We’re here to help if you want support
Some landlords are happy to research rent levels and handle reviews themselves. Others prefer reassurance that things are being done correctly and fairly.
If you’d like help reviewing comparable rents, understanding your options, or handling a rent review in line with current and upcoming guidance, we’re always happy to talk things through.
There’s no pressure — just clear, practical support so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
