UK Rent Renewals January 2026: 3 Clauses That Can Raise Your Rent

UK rent renewals in January 2026: the three clauses tenants should read twice

TL;DR Summary

• January is when many UK tenancies renew or roll into new fixed terms.
• Rent increases often come from clauses already in your contract, not sudden demands.
• Three clauses matter most: automatic rent reviews, break clauses, and formal rent increase notices.

Searches for “January rent renewal UK” rise sharply at the start of the year, as tenants receive renewal emails or new contracts from landlords and letting agents.

For many renters, the biggest risk isn’t an unexpected letter — it’s agreeing to a renewal without fully understanding what the contract already allows.

This guide explains the three clauses that most often catch tenants out in January 2026, and when you may be able to push back or say no.

Clause 1: Automatic rent review or escalation clauses

Many modern tenancy agreements include a rent review clause that allows the rent to increase without a brand-new contract.

Common forms include:

• A fixed percentage increase after 12 months
• Index-linked increases (for example, tied to inflation)
• Wording that allows a “market rent review”

If this clause exists, the landlord may not need your agreement — only to follow the procedure set out in the contract.

What to check: How the increase is calculated, when it applies, and whether notice is required.

Clause 2: Break clauses that limit your exit options

A break clause allows either party to end the tenancy early, but the wording matters.

In January renewals, tenants sometimes agree to a new fixed term with a break clause that:

• Only the landlord can use
• Requires long notice periods
• Has strict conditions (such as rent being fully up to date)

This can reduce your flexibility if the rent becomes unaffordable later in the year.

Clause 3: Formal rent increase routes (Section 13 notices)

If you move onto a periodic tenancy, landlords may use a Section 13 notice to propose a rent increase.

Key points tenants often miss:

• A Section 13 notice must follow a set legal format
• You usually have the right to challenge it at a tribunal
• Deadlines matter — silence can be treated as acceptance

This route is different from simply signing a new fixed-term agreement.

When you may be able to refuse or delay a rent increase

Tenants sometimes assume they must accept a January increase. That’s not always true.

You may have options if:

• The contract does not allow an automatic increase
• The landlord hasn’t followed the correct notice process
• You are being asked to sign a new fixed term rather than stay periodic

In these cases, negotiation or remaining on a rolling tenancy may be possible.

January renewal checklist for tenants

1. Re-read the rent review clause in your current agreement.
2. Check whether you are being offered a new fixed term or a continuation.
3. Look closely at any break clause wording.
4. Confirm how and when rent can legally be increased.
5. Get advice before signing if anything is unclear.

How this fits your rent and housing content cluster

This article works alongside guides on rent increases, Section 13 notices, and tenant negotiation strategies.

Together, they help renters understand not just that rent can rise — but how and when it’s allowed to.

Quick Q&A

• Q: Can my landlord raise rent just because it’s January?
  A: No. The increase must be allowed by the contract or follow the legal process.
• Q: Do I have to sign a new tenancy agreement?
  A: Often no. Many tenancies can continue on a rolling basis.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. UK tenancy law varies by nation and circumstances. Always check official guidance or seek professional advice before making decisions.