End of Tenancy / Rent increase by 15%

Loco

Hi,

Renting in London and have less than 3 weeks left on my Tenancy Agreement

They have informed me yesterday they want to increase the rent by 15% on the next contract.

Would I have to move out immediately by law in 3 weeks if I didn't want to sign the new Agreement?

Or is there any legislation which could allow me some time to find a new place before moving on.

I would still be happy to pay rent for the additional time I stay at the same rate, just worried about how much time I have to find something decent.

Want to know this before I attempt to negotiate a contract extension or just accept and sign the new terms they give (with the intention to use the break clause, purely to allow me time to find somewhere else)

Basically, in 3 weeks do I have to leave if I don't sign a contract!

Cheers

who_ru

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/index/your_family/home_and_neighbourhood_index_ew/renting_a_home_index_ew/renting_from_a_private_landlord.htm#Fixing_and_increasing_the_rent

Giblet

I would imagine he would have to go through proper eviction methods, if you don't agree to the new contract.

Loco

Also, Its not that I can't afford the rent increase, just want to know my options.

I also know that those in my apartment block, in similar apartments are paying more than me so its not exactly a completely unfair proposal from them.

http://www.ealing.gov.uk/services/housing/private_property/tenancy_rights/assured_shorthold_tenancies.html

"after your contract has expired your landlord can obtain a possession order to evict you. They must serve you with a valid notice requiring possession. The notice must be in writing and give you at least two months notice."

So if worse comes to worst I'll have about 2 months notice before potentially incurring court charges / bailiff notices?

That looks like 2 free months rent to me, but of course, at the cost of loosing a decent reference which would make finding a new place difficult?

Or would I be liable for charges as soon as the possession order is obtained?