Landlords considering a rent increase can now use a new searchable database from Goodlord to review how proposed increases have been assessed by tribunals. The tracker covers published decisions on Section 13 notices made since 1 May, when the Renters' Rights Act took effect.
The database allows users to search by postcode, area, case reference, landlord, or tenant. It also includes the tribunal's reasoning and updates automatically as new decisions are published.
Phil Noble, Goodlord's product lead, stated that the tracker is designed to help landlords and agents understand how decisions are being made, both nationally and locally. He noted that the full effects of the Renters' Rights Act, particularly regarding rent rise appeals, are still emerging.
The launch follows reports of tribunal outcomes, including a Manchester landlord whose proposed £50 monthly increase led to the First-tier Tribunal cutting the existing rent by £200. In another case in London, a landlord seeking £2,475 a month had the rent determined at £1,950 by the tribunal.
A review of 25 published decisions by property lawyer David Smith found that half of the 24 cases where a rent was determined resulted in the full increase requested. However, six landlords received 25% or less of the uplift sought, and two secured no increase above the existing rent.