Raising the rent isn’t as straightforward as it once was. With the Renters’ Rights Bill moving towards final approval, landlords must now follow tighter rules when adjusting rents. From 2026, rent increases will only be allowed once a year, through a formal Section 13 notice, and must reflect the market rate. At Christopher Anthony Property Management Experts, we help landlords across the South East manage rent reviews in full compliance with the law, while maximising return on investment through smart, tenant-focused property improvements.
Here’s how to justify a rent increase fairly, attract long-term tenants, and stay ahead of new legislation.
1. Ensure High-Speed Broadband Access
With more people working from home, fast, reliable broadband is no longer optional. Tenants expect properties to support remote work and heavy internet usage.
- Upgrade to full fibre broadband if available
- Mention it in your property adverts
- Consider including internet in rent for HMOs or serviced lets
Why it matters: The Renters’ Rights Bill curbs bidding wars, so landlords must now focus on value rather than inflated offers. Upgrades like this help justify rent at the upper end of the local range.
2. Modernise Power Points
Tenants juggle phones, laptops, and tablets. Dated sockets can turn them off.
- Add USB outlets
- Provide smart power strips
- Make sure bedrooms and living areas have plenty of charging points
Practical improvements help modernise your property, and support your case for a reasonable rent increase under the new legal framework.
3. Focus on Energy Efficiency
The Renters’ Rights Bill extends the Decent Homes Standard to the private rental sector, including expectations for insulation, heating, and overall energy performance.
- Install LED lighting
- Upgrade to smart thermostats
- Improve insulation and EPC rating
- Fit water-saving appliances
At Christopher Anthony, our property management team can advise on energy improvements that keep your property compliant and appealing to cost-conscious tenants.
4. Make It Pet-Friendly
The new legislation gives tenants more rights to request pets, and landlords can refuse only for a good reason. Proactively embracing pet-friendly features can reduce voids and justify premium rent.
- Secure outdoor areas
- Hard flooring that’s easy to clean
- Consider allowing pet flaps or including pet clauses in agreements
Tenants with pets often stay longer and are prepared to pay more for a suitable home.
5. Upgrade the Shower – Not the Whole Bathroom
A full bathroom refit isn’t always necessary. But a high-quality, modern shower can make a strong first impression and influence a tenant’s decision.
- All-metal, high-pressure showers
- Water-saving shower heads
- Fresh silicone and tiles
With stricter standards on property condition under the Renters’ Rights Bill, these small upgrades also help with ongoing compliance.
6. Provide Clear Justification & Correct Notice
Under the new rules, landlords must give two months’ notice using a Section 13 form and must be prepared for tenants to challenge any unfair increases.
We help you:
- Benchmark local market rates
- Provide evidence for value-based increases
- Stay compliant with Section 13 regulations
- Communicate changes professionally
Property Management Made Simple
Navigating legal changes, rent reviews, and property upgrades can be time-consuming. That’s where Christopher Anthony Property Management Experts comes in. We manage everything from tenant communications and legal compliance to maintenance and market positioning.
If you’re planning to review your rents, or want to improve your property to attract better tenants, now’s the time to act.
Get in touch with Christopher Anthony Property Management Experts today and let us help you increase rent legally, fairly, and effectively.
