Agent accused of multiple offences
Summary
A BBC investigation alleges serious misconduct by a letting agent and his agency, including failure to return tenant deposits, unpaid rent owed to landlords, and concerns that deposits may not have been placed in a regulated scheme. The report also references staff departures and an alleged cannabis farm tenancy at one of the managed properties.
Why it matters
This is relevant to residential property surveyors because it highlights risks around tenancy deposit compliance, landlord due diligence and property management standards. It also underscores the importance of identifying signs of misuse or unlawful occupation when inspecting or advising on residential property.
Key points
- BBC investigation alleges over 100 tenants may not have had deposits returned.
- Landlords claim rent is owed, with reported individual losses ranging from £700 to £16,000.
- Former staff told the BBC they did not see deposits placed in a regulated scheme.
- The agency has branches in Birmingham, Telford and Wolverhampton.
- Trading Standards has been notified, and allegations include a property being used as a cannabis farm.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
