The UK rental market is undergoing one of its biggest shake-ups in decades. With parts of the Renters (Reform) Bill now in effect and further changes expected later this year, both landlords and tenants across Merseyside are asking: what does this mean for me?
Whether you’re a landlord letting properties in Liverpool, Wirral, or beyond, or a tenant looking for a secure place to call home, this post breaks down the key changes in plain English.
For years, landlords could evict tenants without giving a reason using a Section 21 notice. That’s changing. This type of notice is being scrapped entirely.
From now on, landlords must give a legitimate reason to end a tenancy, such as: - Wanting to sell the property - Needing it back for personal use - Persistent rent arrears or serious breach of tenancy
What this means: Tenants get more long-term security. Landlords must follow clearer legal grounds and evidence procedures if they want to regain possession.
The old model of 6- or 12-month contracts is being phased out. All new tenancies will become periodic (rolling) from day one.
Tenants can now give 2 months’ notice to leave at any time.
Landlords can only serve notice under specific legal grounds (see above).
To balance the loss of Section 21, landlords now have stronger powers under Section 8. These include: - New mandatory grounds for serious rent arrears - Faster eviction routes for antisocial behaviour
This is meant to protect responsible landlords dealing with genuine problems.
The Government still plans to introduce a “lifetime deposit” system, allowing tenants to carry their deposit from one property to the next.
This isn’t law yet, but it’s on the horizon. It could simplify moving for tenants, and reduce admin for landlords.
A new legally enforced Decent Homes Standard is expected to apply to all private rentals.
Landlords must ensure: - The property is free from serious hazards (e.g., mould, damp) - Adequate heating and insulation - Working smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and electrical safety
Councils are expected to ramp up enforcement in 2025.
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If you’re a landlord in Merseyside, these reforms mean: - You need a clear paper trail when issuing notices or managing arrears - Licensing, EPCs, gas/electrical safety, and repairs must all be in order - Using a property management agent can help you stay compliant and reduce risk
These changes aim to give tenants: - More stability (you can’t be evicted without valid reason) - Better living conditions (through minimum standards) - More transparency when renting
You still have responsibilities: pay rent on time, treat the property well, and report repairs promptly.
At FSC Property, we stay on top of every legal change so our landlords and tenants don’t have to stress.
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or long-term tenant, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact us today at info@fscproperty.com or visit our Contact page to book a free consultation or register your interest.
Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and not legal advice. Always check the latest Government guidance or seek professional support.
