Landlords warned not to rely on lettings agents for compliance
Summary
The article warns landlords not to assume that appointing a lettings agent transfers legal responsibility for compliance. It highlights increasing obligations around Right to Rent checks, licensing, tenancy management and property standards, alongside the implications of the Renters’ Rights Act changes.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter landlords who misunderstand where compliance liability sits, particularly where agents are instructed to manage properties. The article reinforces the need for accurate advice on legal duties, evidence keeping and the risks of non-compliance in managed lettings.
Key points
- Landlords remain legally responsible for compliance even when using a lettings agent.
- Right to Rent errors can still result in fines for the landlord.
- Local authorities can impose civil penalties, loss of eviction rights, fines, prosecution and banning orders for breaches.
- Property management is increasingly framed as compliance risk management rather than only rent collection and tenant finding.
- The article references the Renters’ Rights Act changes as adding to landlords’ compliance burden.
Organisations:
The Negotiator, 1st Avenue, Labour government, local authorities
Regulations:
Right to Rent, Renters’ Rights Act, Banning Orders
Read the original article
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