Letting agents must register with redress scheme

Letting agents are being reminded to register with an approved complaints scheme.

Since 1 October 2014, letting agents and property managers must join one of three Government-approved ‘redress’ schemes.

The legal requirement means that tenants and landlords dealing with letting agents, and leaseholders and freeholders dealing with property managers, will have an independent person to complain to if they receive a service that falls below standards.

This will make it easier for tenants and landlords to report bad service and prevent disputes escalating.

Registration to the redress scheme is enforced by the council’s housing regulation team who can fine unregistered letting agents and property managers up to £5,000.

Councillor Debra Coupar, executive member for communities, said:

“The redress scheme is designed to weed out bad agents and drive up standards. It’s another tool we can use to crack down on those in the privately rented sector who operate outside the rules.

“If you are a letting agent or property manager in Leeds please ensure you join one of the schemes. Our housing regulation team will be checking those who need to sign up have done so.

“Anyone who tries to avoid mandatory membership will face the consequences of a significant financial penalty.”

For more information on registration, letting agents and property managers can speak to the housing regulation team on 0113 247 7594 or search for ‘property redress scheme’ at www.leeds.gov.uk.