THE current economic climate means that we all have to scrutinise the small print to make sure that we get the best deal possible.
So, if you are looking for somewhere to rent, and you are thinking of using a letting agent, how can you be sure that you will not be ripped-off?
The first thing you should do is to shop around and do your homework.
Clue yourself up on exactly what service each agent provides and be sure you know what is chargeable and what is not.
Not all agents make additional charges, but if they do, these amounts can vary significantly.
The next tip is to make sure there are no registration charges.
It is a criminal offence for any letting agency to apply a charge just because you have asked to register with them, and you shouldn't have to pay any fees until the agency has found you accommodation.
If you think that an agency is acting illegally, tell your local council's trading standards officer or tenancy relations officer – they will love to hear from you.
Another top tip is to check whether the agent is a member of a trade body – look out for the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA), the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS).
These trade bodies require their members to have arrangements to protect clients' money which means you don't lose out if the agent goes bust.
Also, look out for agents with the Safe Agent Fully Endorsed mark, which means they will look after your money through a client money protection scheme.
Next, check whether the agent operates a complaints procedure.
If they are a member of a trade body then they will be required to have one, but some also include access to independent redress – an ombudsman scheme for example, and this is worth looking for.
Finally, be aware of your rights if you are charged a tenancy deposit by making sure you ask the agent for the details of their tenancy deposit protection scheme.
You can find out more about your rights and what you can do if things go wrong, by going to www.adviceguide.org.uk, popping into our offices in Beeston, Eastwood or Stapleford, or by calling our advice line on 0844 4994194.
