This quarter, we’ve identified numerous business challenges, ranging from the new identity verification requirements for Companies House to the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. However, many more changes are on the horizon. To keep you updated, this issue outlines some of the crucial upcoming updates that businesses should consider as we approach the new financial year.

Unfair dismissal law in the UK is undergoing some of the most significant changes in decades. Employers are facing higher financial exposure from April 2026 and greater litigation risk, coupled with a complete overhaul of qualifying periods and compensation caps from January 2027. These changes sit within the context that tribunal claims are on a steady increase.

From 06 April 2026 the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) rates will increase. In 2025, workplace sickness absence rates continued to be a significant concern for employers whilst also placing ongoing pressure on them to maintain productivity, manage finances and ensure proper workforce planning.

Q: What should a landlord consider when preparing to grant a lease of commercial premises?

The Upwards Only Rent Review Bill continues to move through the UK legislative process and has recently reached a significant milestone. Having passed through the House of Commons, the Bill is now progressing through the House of Lords, where it is undergoing detailed scrutiny before it can move closer to becoming law.

We recently acted for a buyer of the freehold interest in multi-let commercial industrial unit. The property due diligence revealed that the recommendations from the risk assessments (FRA) had not been carried out.  The seller argued that the burden of complying with the FRAs was down to each occupying tenant under their respective leases and therefore would not go to the expense of implementing any recommendations arising out of the FRAs.