Section 13 rent increase?

I recently increased a tenant’s rent via Section 13 notice and the rent just continued to be paid at the old rate. After two months of the old rent being received I contacted the tenant. Turns out he thought he was paying by direct debit and that I would be taking the higher rent each month from his bank account and he’s actually been wondering why the amount hadn’t increased. I explained that he pays by standing order not direct debit and he would need to amend his standing order payment himself by contacting his bank. I explained that direct debits were for large institutions and as a small landlord I don’t have the facility to operate them. Tenant apologised and immediately sent me the two months rent shortfall, contacted his back and altered his monthly rent amount. So your problem could simply be something like this.

Some good advice already here. To add something, if you have a good relationship with your tenant they might not fully understand or read up on their obligations. If the s13 date expires the new rent will take effect. If they go to tribunal within the timeframe you ‘can’ be awarded a higher rent.
Maybe worth laying all this out and that if you do nothing could go into debt with a s8. At least you should get a straight answer then.

Last two comments really do layout the need to at least attempt further contact with the tenant before jumping to eviction process. You perhaps feel you shouldn’t have to but given that you’ve commented you’re reluctant to do this, why wouldn’t you at least attempt to lay out what the options are first.

Reply to the comment left by Dylan Morris at 25/05/2023 – 07:15
Actually you can sign up to companies which will allow you the facility of running direct debits- however, it costs every time you use it.
Just for situational awareness