According to Pegasus Insight research, for those intending to increase rents, the average anticipated rise is 6%, compared to 5% this time last year. Pegasus Insight said that while fewer landlords plan to raise rents, the increases planned by the remainder are “significant by historic standards”. This could mean that landlords are acting pre-emptively to ensure their rent levels are sustainable prior to the new legislation. When rent levels rise too far, demand can falter – this is price elasticity in action, and many landlords recognise that pushing further risks losing tenants or facing longer voids. With annual rent increase limits and tribunal challenges on the horizon, landlords are reviewing their portfolios carefully.