My Halloween Rent Increase Horror
Scenario:
Margaret discovers she owes her landlord £5,000 in rent arrears.
“The landlord of our block has increased the rental charge on my flat substantially (a 60% increase). He says he needs all the tenants to pay more so that he can pay for important roof repairs. He is claiming the new rent rate applies from the beginning of the rental contract year, which is April 2023, which means I owe him back-dated rent amounting to £5,000.
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Can he do this without my written consent?
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Is he allowed to make such a huge increase with no notice, and backdate it?
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If I do not pay the additional amount, does he have the right to evict me?
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Surely the terms of my rental lease should be negotiated with me in advance?
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Isn’t he responsible for paying for the roof repairs himself?
Jude Owen, Head of Litigation & Disputes team
Lawson West Solicitors, Leicester
What does our Head of Litigation & Disputes team, Jude Owen, say of Margaret’s dilemma?
“We have heard of many landlords this year who have substantially increased the rent for their tenants in a bid to:
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Pay the increased cost of their own property mortgage loan as bank rates have soared;
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Manage increased water rates, electricity, gas bills and cost of living increases.
If you have been affected by unreasonable Rent Increases and wish to discuss your options, please contact our Litigation & Disputes team. Contact Us."
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