Lettings market update

With agents, landlords and tenants focused on the introduction of the Renters Rights Act (RRA) on 1st May 2026 there has been little or no commentary on the current state of the lettings market in Liverpool City Centre during this time.

Given the substantial changes that the RRA brought to the private rented sector it is of little surprise that the market has suffered a little over the last few weeks. Some landlords decided to sell before 1st May with more doing so since as and when their properties have become vacant. We expect this to continue during the next 3-6 months before settling down. On the tenant side we did see a substantial increase in tenants giving notice to quit during the last 2 months although this may be more down to the uncertainty and challenges we are all experiencing in relation to the economy, politics, wars and almost everything else!

The increase in stock during this period (at a time of year when demand is normally subdued) made for a challenging market although there has been a substantial increase in rental activity since the start of June. We expect the market to continue to recover as we move into the busiest quarter of the year between July to September.

It is only now we are starting to see the consequences of the RRA. For example it is now mandatory that any tenant provides at least two months notice of their intention to quit their tenancy. Despite substantial media coverage, and City Residential having provided them with the mandatory Government supplied Information sheet, many tenants are unaware of this requirement! This has impacted the market with tenants unsure as to when they should give notice and when they should start viewing for a new property. For agents it is also difficult trying to navigate this market and balance the requirements of both landlords and tenants.

Whilst the market has been challenging rents have continued to creep up as demand has recovered and the new rules regarding annual rental increases appear to be working fine.

For further information on the market do not hesitate to reach out to the lettings team at City Residential on 0151 231 6100 or by email