Clean up or clear off!

As more and more people turn to renting, the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) is warning would-be tenants to watch out for rogue letting agents. ARLA's key warning signs for prospective tenants to be aware of are:

• Not allowed to see the whole property?

Be wary of agents who refuse full viewing and inspection of the property. At best, there may be problems behind closed doors; at worst, they may be showing you around a property that is already being rented to another individual, who might be staying on in that room. Always thoroughly inspect the property, checking every room. It is also a good idea to do your research on the local area, both on-line and in person, to make sure it is suited to your needs.

• Do you know what the logo means?

Keep an eye out for non-accredited third party logos or accreditation being used by agents to look as if they are monitored and adhere to a set code of conduct. This can be used to lure prospective tenants into a false sense of security. Always check that agents are affiliated to a professional organisation like the ARLA using the appropriate website to confirm. 

• Can't get in contact with the agent or landlord?

If you are searching on-line or via notice boards, be cautious of adverts with no telephone numbers or adverts that only use free email hosts. Ring the phone number on the advert to check its authenticity. Unscrupulous 'middlemen' may use false phone numbers or phone numbers they find on-line.

The Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA) is also saying "clean up or clear off!" to letting industry rogues, suggesting that rogue letting agents and landlords should either mend their ways or quit the market. Tenant demand will continue to outstrip supply this year, with more families opting - or having - to rent.

Ian Potter, managing director of ARLA, said the situation will be particularly acute in London and the South-East. He said: “This increased demand will put quality and standards under a greater spotlight. This year, it will be time for unscrupulous agents and landlord to put up or shut up. Consumers are rightly calling for much higher standards in the private rented sector.”

He claimed: “We are seeing demand for licensed ARLA agents grow amongst tenants and landlords alike.” Potter also said there will be no slowdown in rent levels: “When it comes to rent levels, as long as the shortage of housing stock continues, it is unlikely that there will be any relief on rising rents throughout 2013.

“Indeed, in urban areas the demand for single-person occupancies may well continue throughout 2013, which will increase the existing pressure on high-demand properties and areas.”

Here at Applegate Lettings, we're proud to be fully accredited members of ARLA, one of the few agents in the area that is!

Articles courtesy of Letting Agent Today and the Epsom Guardian: http://www.epsomguardian.co.uk/homes/property_news/10228911.Avoid_falling_prey_to_rogue_agents/