Rent and private residential tenancies

A landlord of a private residential tenancy can only increase the rent once in any twelve month period and must follow the procedure laid down in legislation. The landlord and tenant cannot include a rent increase clause in the tenancy agreement to avoid using the statutory procedure. [1]

Where rent is paid in cash the landlord must provide the tenant with a written receipt stating both the amount paid and details of any balance outstanding or confirmation that no further amount remains outstanding. [2]

The tenant must be given three months notice of the proposed increase  via a rent-increase notice. Unless the property is in a rent pressure zone, the tenant has the right to refer the increase to the rent officer for a determination. This must be done within 21 days of the tenant receiving the notice.

See the section on private residential tenants - rent increase for more information on the procedure.