Yes it is a maximum allowed. On the rent. The service charge is separate though so they can increase that element by a different amount. It has to be identified clearly though; it cannot just be deemed as “rent”. That is the clear intention.
Mind you, social providers seem to do as they want at this time.
You are right though. As far as the tenant is concerned their total rent has increased by 14%. All smoke and mirrors ……and politics. “We are restricting your rent increase”….oh no you are not.
