Choose lettings agent with care, says Connells

One unfortunate consequence of this is a record rise in the number of complaints about private lettings to the Property Ombudsman, the UK’s main property watchdog, and a renewal of the debate about whether lettings agents should be regulated.

However, as Selina Egan, lettings manager of Connells estate agents in Leamington points out, there are already safeguards in place, such as membership of the Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA), that all landlords and tenants should look out for when choosing an agent.

She said: “Connells is a longstanding voluntary member of ARLA which means we must agree to abide by a strict code of conduct, as well as offering client money protection and redress schemes, which are rigorously enforced.

“Many people entering the rental market for the first time may be unaware that, if their lettings agent is not a member of an officially recognised body such as ARLA, they are immune from any form of disciplinary action for misconduct.”

Currently anyone can set themselves up as a lettings agent, with no formal training or experience and no legal requirement to subscribe to a redress scheme.

This can be extremely dangerous for both landlords and tenants as these agents may be completely unqualified, have no knowledge of the complex legal and safety requirements and offer little support to either landlord or tenant if things go wrong.

“Obviously, as responsible lettings agents, we hope we won’t ever find ourselves in dispute with our landlords or tenants. However, if the worst should happen, being a member of ARLA means we can assure that things get resolved quickly and fairly.”

To find out more about Connells award winning lettings service call 01926 428107 or call into the branch at 7-8 Euston Place, Leamington.

Pictured: Selina Egan, lettings manager at Connells in Leamington.