Lomond argues that professional letting agents provide value beyond tenant-finding, particularly through risk reduction, compliance support and ongoing property management. The article links this to the Renters Rights Act, suggesting landlords are increasingly seeking fully managed services to help navigate regulatory change and protect income and asset value.
Florence Eshalomi has been appointed a minister in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government after previously chairing the housing select committee. The article indicates she has consistently argued for tougher private rented sector regulation, including stronger enforcement of the Renters Rights Act, earlier adoption of the Decent Homes Standard, and faster implementation of Awaab’s Law and the Private Rented Sector Database.
Chestertons is urging the lettings sector to strengthen tenant referencing and carry out ongoing tenancy checks to reduce the risk of fraud. The article cites fake IDs, forged references and falsified bank statements as methods used to obtain rentals, with some landlords then facing rent loss, property damage and lengthy possession processes.
The government is considering tighter verification requirements for letting agents seeking membership of redress and tenancy deposit protection schemes. The move follows concerns about fraudulent operators misusing legitimate schemes and comes alongside a wider review of regulation in the property agent sector.
