Like all housing associations we review rent and service charges each year in line with Government policy.

We aim to set a rent that is as fair as possible for customers and means we can keep providing and investing in our customers homes and services.

This year we have made the decision to increase rent in line with the Government’s rent setting policy which is an increase of 4.8% from April 2026.  If you are a shared owner your rent increase is specific to your individual lease.

Customers will receive a letter during February, with details of your rent and service charges from April 2026.

How is the rent increase decided?

Increasing rent for customers is not a decision we take lightly. Our Finance and Customer Services Directors met with our Resident Engagement Panel to talk through the proposed increase and the different options available.

This was a detailed and open discussion where panel members asked important questions, particularly about affordability and value for money.  Together they looked at how rent income supports investment in homes and services.  They also discussed what it would mean for customers if rents did not increase.

Panel members were also invited to share further feedback through a follow-up survey.  Their views were shared with the board.

Following this process, we felt that to keep investing in our services to customers and in our homes, a rent increase was required.

Support
Some customers tell us that they are facing real pressure right now.  We understand this and carefully considered our decision to increase your rent. If you are worried about being able to pay, please get in touch so we can support you.

The state pension and other benefits will increase in April 2026, but if you’re worried about paying your rent we are here to help.

Read more about the rent rise, help and support available and answers to any questions you may have.

Investing in your home
As a not-for-profit housing association, the rent rise means we can continue investing in services for customers, maintaining and improving homes, and building more affordable housing in Bristol and surrounding area.

Contact us
If you need support, we are here to help.  Please call 0117 942 4600 or email us  RentandServiceCharges@brighterplaces.co.uk