100% Free Tool

Free Section 13 Checker & Calculator

Use our free Section 13 tool to check if you can serve a valid rent increase notice. This Section 13 calculator helps UK landlords calculate notice periods and ensure compliance.

✓ Free Section 13 checker  •  ✓ Instant results  •  ✓ No signup required

Tenancy Details
Tell us about your tenancy to check Section 13 eligibility
Rent Details

Check Your Eligibility

Fill in the form to check if you can serve a valid Section 13 rent increase notice.

Section 13 Complete Guide

Download our comprehensive Section 13 rent increase guide with templates and step-by-step instructions.

Free Section 13 Tool: Complete Rent Increase Guide

What is a Section 13 Checker?

A Section 13 checker (also known as a Section 13 tool or Section 13 calculator) is a free online tool that helps UK landlords determine if they can legally serve a Section 13 rent increase notice. Our free Section 13 checker calculates notice periods, verifies eligibility, and ensures you comply with all legal requirements.

What is a Section 13 Notice?

A Section 13 notice is the formal legal process for increasing rent on assured periodic tenancies and statutory periodic tenancies in England. It uses Form 4, the government's prescribed form, and must follow strict rules about timing and procedure. Use this free Section 13 tool to check if you can serve one.

When Can You Use Section 13?

You can use Section 13 when:

  • The tenancy is periodic (rolling) or statutory periodic (after fixed term)
  • At least 12 months have passed since the tenancy started or the last rent increase
  • There is no rent review clause that must be used instead
  • You give the correct notice period

Notice Periods

The minimum notice period depends on how often rent is paid:

  • Monthly tenancy: 1 month's notice
  • Weekly tenancy: 1 month's notice
  • Yearly tenancy: 6 months' notice

The notice must end on the first day of a new rental period.

What Happens After Serving Notice?

After receiving a Section 13 notice, tenants can:

  • Accept the new rent and continue paying from the effective date
  • Negotiate a different amount with the landlord
  • Refer the notice to a First-tier Tribunal before the effective date

Renters' Rights Act Changes

Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, Section 13 becomes the only way landlords can increase rent. Rent review clauses will no longer be enforceable, and tenants will have enhanced rights to challenge increases at tribunal.

Section 13 Checker FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Section 13 checker free?

Yes! This Section 13 tool is completely free to use. There's no signup required and no hidden costs. Use our free Section 13 checker as many times as you need.

How does the Section 13 calculator work?

Our Section 13 calculator asks about your tenancy type, rent payment frequency, and key dates. It then calculates the minimum notice period and the earliest effective date for your rent increase, ensuring compliance with UK housing law.

How much can I increase rent by?

There's no legal cap on rent increases, but the new rent must be a 'market rent' - what a similar property would achieve in the local area. If tenants challenge at tribunal, the tribunal will assess whether the rent is fair compared to similar properties.

Can tenants refuse a Section 13 increase?

Tenants cannot simply refuse a valid Section 13 notice, but they can refer it to a tribunal before the effective date. If they don't refer it and don't pay, you can pursue the rent through normal debt recovery processes.

What if I make a mistake on the form?

If the Section 13 notice contains errors (wrong dates, incorrect form, etc.), it may be invalid. The tenant could challenge it and you may need to serve a new notice. Always double-check the form before serving - that's why using a Section 13 checker tool is so important.

Why use a Section 13 tool before serving notice?

Using a Section 13 tool or checker before serving your notice helps ensure you meet all legal requirements. An invalid notice can be challenged by tenants, delaying your rent increase and potentially costing you money in lost income and legal fees.