Can a landlord get around the RPZ cap by calling a rent increase something else?

30 Sept 2026, 12:57
Q A Reader Asker

Can a landlord get around the RPZ cap by calling a rent increase something else?

A RentWise Team Answered by

A landlord cannot lawfully avoid the RPZ cap simply by renaming a rent increase as a fee, charge or adjustment. A higher rent may be allowed only where a specific legal exemption applies, such as substantial changes to the property or the property not having been let for a qualifying period, and the landlord must meet the relevant conditions. Changing the tenant or describing the increase differently does not automatically create an exemption. If challenged, the RTB can assess the tenancy’s facts and decide whether the rent-setting rules were followed.

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