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Challenge risk

When a Section 13 rent increase becomes harder to defend

A rent increase can be well prepared and still be too ambitious. The practical question is whether the figure, evidence, and tenant response all point to a straightforward notice or a file that needs Defence preparation.

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1. The figure

Check what comparable homes support

Start with evidence from genuinely similar properties. Location, bedrooms, condition, furnishings and included services can matter more than a broad area average.

2. The evidence

Keep a record of the comparison

Save the listings, dates and reasons for including or excluding each comparable. A clear evidence trail is more useful than a long list of properties that do not match the let.

3. The route

Choose paperwork that fits the risk

A supportable proposal can follow the standard notice route. Existing objections, weak comparables or a likely tribunal challenge call for a fuller evidence and response file.

Separate the evidence from the risk

Evidence strength tells you whether the comparables are usable. Challenge risk tells you whether the proposed rent is likely to be questioned anyway.

That distinction matters. If the evidence is strong but the figure is still high against the market position, the next decision is whether to lower the figure or prepare the file properly for challenge.

Know when Defence is the cleaner answer

The Defence route is the better fit when the tenant has already objected, the figure is ambitious, or you want the rent evidence and response materials organised before the pressure starts.

The checker helps you make that call early, while you can still adjust the figure or choose the stronger route deliberately.

Your next decision

Check first, then prepare only what the case needs

Use the free checker to test the proposed rent and the strength of the evidence. If the result supports the increase, continue to the notice route. If the tenant has objected or the evidence is borderline, review the challenge route before serving anything. This keeps the paid step tied to the facts instead of asking you to choose a pack too early.

Market-rent evidence used to assess a proposed increase