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Property Tribunal Guides

Navigate UK property disputes with step-by-step tribunal guidance

Rent Increase Tribunal Challenge
Challenge excessive Section 13 rent increases through First-tier Tribunal

1. Check Eligibility

Ensure you can challenge the rent increase

Before notice takes effect
  • Must be Section 13 notice
  • Apply before increase date
  • Check comparable rents in area
  • Assured or assured shorthold tenancy only

2. Apply to Tribunal

Submit application to First-tier Tribunal

Before new rent due date
  • Use form RPT1
  • £100 fee (may be waived)
  • Apply online or by post
  • Include copy of Section 13 notice

3. Prepare Evidence

Gather evidence of market rents

2-4 weeks before hearing
  • Similar properties in area
  • Recent letting advertisements
  • Property condition evidence
  • Local area statistics
  • Estate agent valuations

4. Attend Hearing

Present your case to tribunal panel

6-8 weeks after application
  • Usually 30-60 minute hearing
  • Panel of 2-3 experts
  • Landlord may not attend
  • Focus on market rent not affordability
  • Be prepared with evidence

5. Receive Decision

Tribunal determines market rent

1-2 weeks after hearing
  • Decision in writing
  • Can set rent higher or lower
  • Effective from original increase date
  • Usually cannot be appealed
  • Binding on both parties
Tribunal Fees

Application Fee: £100

May be waived for low income applicants

Fee Remission Available

Apply using form EX160 if you receive benefits or have low income

Important Deadlines
What the Tribunal Considers

Factors That Help Your Case

  • • Comparable properties at lower rents
  • • Poor property condition
  • • Lack of improvements since last increase
  • • Area declining or unchanged
  • • Similar properties with better features cost less

What Doesn't Matter

  • • Your personal financial situation
  • • How much you can afford
  • • Length of tenancy or good tenant history
  • • Landlord's mortgage costs
  • • Other non-housing costs