Understanding how much letting agents charge is essential for any landlord looking to let a property in the Wirral or anywhere in the UK. Choosing the right letting agency can make all the difference in the profitability and ease of managing your property investment.
At Wirral Homes, we’ve built our reputation on transparent pricing, clear communication, and expert local knowledge – giving landlords confidence and peace of mind.
This guide explains typical letting agent fees, what they include, and how to make sure you’re getting genuine value for money.
Average Letting Agent Fees in Wirral
Letting agent costs vary depending on the level of service you choose.
- Fully managed service: 8 % – 15 % of the monthly rental income
- Rent collection only: around 5 % – 8 % of the monthly rent
- Let-only / tenant-find service: typically a one-off payment equal to 75 % – 100 % of the first month’s rent + VAT
At Wirral Homes, we offer competitive rates tailored to the support you need — whether you manage one property or an entire portfolio. Explore our Landlord Investment Services to see how we help landlords maximise returns.
Types of Letting Agent Services
1. Tenant-Find Service
Includes marketing your property, conducting viewings, referencing tenants, and preparing tenancy agreements.
- Best for: experienced landlords confident in managing day-to-day issues.
- Typical fee: one-off charge – 75 % – 100 % of first month’s rent + VAT.
You can learn more about our Tenant Credit Checks and Tenant Reference Checks to understand how we ensure reliable tenancies.
2. Rent Collection Service
Adds rent collection and arrears management to the above.
- Best for: landlords who want steady cash flow but prefer to handle maintenance.
- Typical fee: 5 % – 8 % of monthly rent.
Find out how our Rent Collection Service helps keep payments on schedule and reduces stress.
3. Fully Managed Service
A complete hands-off option covering:
- Tenant sourcing and vetting
- Rent collection and arrears
- Maintenance coordination
- Property inspections
- Legal and safety compliance
- Deposit protection and renewals
- Best for: landlords who value time and convenience.
- Typical fee: 10 % – 15 % of monthly rent.
You can see more about our Property Inspections and Deposit Management Service, both key parts of a comprehensive management package.
What’s Included in Letting Agent Fees?
Good agents should provide a full suite of professional services, often including:
- Professional photography and Marketing Your Property across major portals
- Comprehensive tenant referencing and credit checks
- Tenancy agreement drafting and deposit registration
- Routine inspections and condition reports
- Maintenance coordination and emergency response
- Legal and regulatory compliance management
Other Common or Hidden Fees
When comparing quotes, it’s essential to look beyond the base percentage. Some agents charge extra for:
- Property Inventory Reports
- Tenancy renewals or contract amendments
- Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
- Gas Safety Certificates or electrical testing
- Maintenance call-outs or mark-ups
- Exit fees when switching agents
Tip: Always ask for a full schedule of fees before signing a contract to avoid surprises.
Legal Constraints: What Agents Can (and Can’t) Charge
Since the Tenant Fees Act 2019, many tenant-facing fees are now banned in England. Landlords must ensure their agent is compliant — otherwise, penalties can apply (including fines up to £5,000 or restrictions on serving Section 21 notices).
You can read about our Section 21 Notice Service to understand how compliance ties into eviction rights.
Permitted payments include:
- Rent
- Tenancy deposit (up to 5 weeks’ rent)
- Holding deposit (1 week’s rent)
- Default fees for late payment or lost keys (reasonable cost only)
- Charges for tenancy changes or early termination (capped)
Are Letting Agent Fees Tax-Deductible?
Yes — in most cases, letting agent fees are allowable expenses that can be offset against rental income on your Self-Assessment tax return.
This includes:
- Management fees
- Tenant-find and referencing costs
- Advertising and marketing expenses
Always keep invoices and consult your accountant for the latest HMRC guidance.
Example: How Fees Affect Rental Income
Let’s say your Wirral property rents for £1,000 per month:
| Service Type | Fee % | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Your Net Income (before tax) |
| Let-Only | One-off = 1 month’s rent + VAT | £1,200 (approx) | One-time | £10,800 (Year 1) |
| Rent Collection (7 %) | £70 | £840 | £11,160 | |
| Fully Managed (12 %) | £120 | £1,440 | £10,560 |
How to Compare Letting Agents
When comparing fees, focus on value, not just price. Use this checklist:
- What’s included (and excluded)?
- Are there setup or renewal charges?
- Is the agent accredited (ARLA, Safeagent)?
- How often are inspections carried out?
- How are rent arrears handled?
- Are fees published online (legal requirement)?
- Can you exit easily if service levels drop?
Also see: Why Consider Switching Letting Agent in Wirral for guidance on evaluating your current agency’s performance.
Local Market Knowledge in Wirral Lettings
Every lettings market is unique, and the Wirral area is no exception. A knowledgeable agent understands neighbourhood-level demand — from West Kirby and Heswall to Hoylake — ensuring:
- Competitive valuations
- Low vacancy rates
- Reliable tenants
Our Rental Property Valuation Service helps landlords price properties correctly from day one.
For more insights, see our recent post: The Landlord’s Guide to Letting Property in Bebington – Maximising Returns in 2025’s Competitive Market.
Future Trends in Letting Agent Fees
The lettings industry is evolving quickly:
- Online agents are creating competition
- Tech is automating rent collection
- Regulation is tightening
Read our article on How to Conduct a Vetting Interview for a Letting Agent to ensure you’re choosing a compliant, trustworthy partner.
Conclusion: Transparent Fees from a Local Expert
Letting agent fees can vary widely, but understanding what you’re paying for is key. When managed correctly, those fees are an investment in your property’s long-term success.
At Wirral Homes, we prioritise clarity, communication, and care from start to finish. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or expanding your portfolio, our transparent approach means you always know exactly what you’re getting — and why it’s worth it.
Get in touch today or explore our full range of Landlord Services to see how we can help you make the most of your property investment.
