Renting with Sidney & Co

Renting should feel straightforward, not stressful. We are here to help you find a home that suits you, treat you fairly throughout your tenancy, and answer any questions you have along the way.

What the Renters' Rights Act means for you

The Renters’ Rights Act — sometimes still called the Renters Reform Bill — is being brought into force in phases during 2025 and 2026. It gives private tenants in England stronger protections and clearer rules, while keeping things fair for responsible landlords. Here is what it means in plain English.

• No more “no-fault” evictions. Section 21 notices have been abolished. If a landlord needs to end your tenancy, they must give a valid reason and follow the proper process.
• More flexible tenancies. Tenancies are now rolling and open-ended with no fixed term, which means you can give two months’ written notice to leave, ending on a rent period date.
• Fairer rent increases. Rent can only go up once per year, and you must receive at least two months’ notice. You can challenge an increase if it feels unfair.
• Right to request a pet. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a pet request and must respond in writing within a set timescale. The original requirement for tenants to take out pet insurance was removed from the final Act; landlords may still agree reasonable conditions on a case-by-case basis.
• Deposit and rent-in-advance caps. Your refundable tenancy deposit is capped at five weeks’ rent (six weeks where the annual rent is £50,000 or more). Separately, landlords cannot require more than one month’s rent in advance before the tenancy begins.
• Better standards and redress. A new landlord redress scheme and property portal help improve standards and make it easier to resolve disputes.

What’s new under the Act

• Awaab’s Law in the private sector. Landlords must investigate and fix serious hazards such as damp and mould within strict timescales.
• Decent Homes Standard. Private rented homes must now meet the same basic standard already required in social housing — safe, warm, in reasonable repair and with modern facilities.
• Private Rented Sector Ombudsman (not yet in force). A single ombudsman scheme for private landlords is planned, giving tenants a free way to resolve complaints without going to court. It has not launched yet, so landlords cannot join it at the moment.
• Private Rented Sector Database (not yet in force). A national digital register of landlords and properties is planned so you can check your landlord is registered. It is not live yet, so there is nothing to search for now.
• Ban on rental bidding. Landlords and agents must publish an asking rent and cannot invite or accept offers above it.
• Ban on blanket discrimination. It is unlawful to refuse to rent to families with children or to people receiving benefits (“No DSS” policies are prohibited).

This is a general guide, not legal advice. If you are unsure how the changes affect your specific situation, it is worth speaking to a qualified housing adviser or solicitor. If you have questions about renting with us, our team is always happy to chat.

Our promise to tenants

• Clear, honest communication from your first viewing to your final checkout
• Fair tenancy agreements with no hidden surprises
• A responsive maintenance team that treats your home with respect
• Your deposit protected with The Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS), a government-approved scheme

How to apply for a property

We have kept our application process simple and transparent. If you find a property you like, here is exactly what happens next.

1. Register your details — let us know what you are looking for, your budget and your move-in date. You can call us, email us, or send an enquiry through our contact page. We will add you to our early notification list and alert you as soon as a suitable property becomes available.
2. View the property — we will arrange a viewing at a time that suits you. We always accompany viewings, so you can ask questions about the property, the area and the tenancy terms while you are there.
3. Submit your application — if you would like to go ahead, we will ask you to complete a straightforward application form. You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of address, proof of income and employment or guarantor details if required.
4. Referencing and right-to-rent checks — we carry out standard references, including a credit check, employer reference and previous landlord reference where applicable. We also verify your right to rent in the UK in line with legal requirements.
5. Tenancy agreement and move-in — once references are approved, we will prepare the tenancy agreement, protect your deposit with The Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS), and agree a move-in date. We will also provide a clear inventory and helpful information for your first day in your new home.

We aim to make the process as smooth as possible and keep you informed at every stage. If you have any questions, just ask — we are always happy to help.

Start your enquiry

Ready to find your next home? Get in touch with our friendly team today. We will listen to what you need, answer your questions and help you start the application process. If you already have a property in mind, you can view our tenant application form below and return it to us once you have viewed the property.

Start your enquiry, call us on 0151 707 8727 (Liverpool) or 01942 950490 (Wigan), or view our homes to rent.