Section 21 Notices will be abolished from 1 May 2026. Landlords, of private rental properties let under an Assured Tenancy, will only be able to evict tenants if they have evidence to support one of the “grounds” for possession. (NB after 1 May 2026, most tenancies will be Assured Tenancies and on a periodic basis. […]
When someone dies, their estate (property, money and possessions) usually needs to be administered through a legal process known as probate. In England and Wales, probate is the procedure by which the deceased’s Will is proven in court and the executors are given authority to distribute the estate. If there is no Will, a similar […]
Leaving a charitable gift in your will is an easy, impactful way to support causes you care about. Whether it’s a fixed sum, a specific item, or a share of your residuary estate, legacy giving can create a lasting difference — and it can be tax-efficient. Gifts to UK-qualifying charities are usually exempt from Inheritance […]
From 1 May 2026, existing tenancies and all new tenancies will change as a result of the Renters’ Rights Act. Fixed term tenancies will disappear. Instead, there will be rolling periodic tenancies. Section 21 Notices will be abolished. Landlords will only be able to evict tenants if they have evidence to support one of the […]
Signing up to the Land Registry property alerts service is easy to do. It’s a useful anti-fraud mechanism, providing valuable peace of mind. Property fraud – for example where someone tries to sell your property or take out a mortgage on it without your consent – can be a particular risk with vacant homes, rental […]
What are dilapidations? Commercial leases contain obligations on a tenant has to maintain, repair, and sometimes restore a property to its original condition. The landlord can enforce these obligations, particularly at the expiry of the lease. This process is called dilapidations. The aim of the landlord is to get the premises in best possible condition […]
A Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) is a legal document that allows you to appoint one or more trusted individuals (attorneys) to help you make decisions or to make decisions on your behalf when you are unable to, for example due to illness, an accident, or a lack of capacity. There are two types of […]
Are you owed money for work done, goods supplied, or under an agreement?Whether you’re a business or an individual, there are steps you can take to recover the debt. Below is an overview of the key considerations if you’re thinking about taking legal action. Your chances of recovering a debt depend largely on the evidence […]
Someone passing away without a valid Will is more common than you might expect. When this happens in England, the person is said to have died intestate, and it means the law steps in to decide what happens to their estate. Rather than the deceased’s wishes determining who receives what, the rules of intestacy take […]
Mercers is proud to sponsor Henley Squash Club, who run competitive teams, a monthly box league, free junior squash sessions, and an annual handicap tournament. Based at Gillotts Leisure Centre, Henley Squash Club welcomes players of every standard, from beginners, returners, and casual players through to experienced competitors. Our very own Peter Hopkins was among […]
The much loved Henley Farm and Country Show returns on Saturday 13 September — it’s a firm fixture in our local events calendar, with lots to see and do. Mercers is proud to be a sponsor once again, supporting our vibrant local communities on a packed day that showcases the best of Oxfordshire’s rural life […]
Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or executor, understanding property registration is key to protecting your interests. In England and Wales, the Land Registry holds official records of property ownership. Not every property is registered yet, though the Registry is working towards full coverage. Since 1990 England and Wales have been subject to compulsory registration. This […]
