Many renters trying to find a new home have been asked to offer more than the advertised rent to secure a tenancy. This prompts what are sometimes called bidding wars.
Many renters will set a budget and only view homes that are listed below the maximum rent they can afford. Being asked to pay more effectively means they can’t afford the home they’ve just taken time out of their day to view. The practice results in letting agents charging higher rents, and wastes renters’ time.
The Renters Rights Act has, as of 1 May 2026, banned landlords and letting agents from asking for or accepting a higher rent than what was advertised.
The rent listed on the advert, whether that is on an online listing or displayed in the agent’s office, is the maximum they can agree for the property.
Read the government’s guidance on this here.