Property Ombudsman: Letting agent regulation decision is disappointing

News Category: Industry News

This article was brought to you by Rentman the premium rent management software.

The decision by the coalition government to scrap plans to introduce letting agent regulation has been criticised by the Property Ombudsman.

Christopher Hamer stated that it is "disappointing" that the new housing minister Grant Shapps has chosen not to go ahead with the planned regulation of letting agents.

"Whilst it was unrealistic to expect any legislation immediately, the decision by the housing minister potentially leaves landlords and tenants exposed to the rogue element in the lettings sector," he said.

Mr Hamer added that tenants and landlords should only use letting agents who are members of the Property Ombudsman scheme, as well as ensuring they are connected to a suitable trade association.

The government's decision to scrap letting agent regulation has also drawn criticism from Arla, which stated that standards in the private rented sector could be negatively affected as a result.

Operations manager Ian Potter said until the industry is properly regulated, anyone will be able to set themselves up as a letting agent.

Find out more about letting agency software