Letting agency services

Letting agents offer a range of services, so whether you're managing one rental property or a portfolio, there's a level of support to suit your needs. By law, agents must display their fees clearly online and in branch, so it’s worth comparing a few before deciding. Here's a breakdown of the most common service types and what to expect from each:

Tenant find only

Often referred to as  ‘introduction only’, this service focuses on marketing your property and securing a tenant. It often includes property photography, advertising, arranging viewings, referencing, Right to Rent checks, tenancy agreement setup, and an inventory. Once the tenant moves in, the rest is up to you.

Rent collection

Charged monthly, this service handles the financial side. The agent collects rent, manages the deposit, and follows up on late payments.

Fully managed

The most comprehensive option, this service covers everything from finding tenants to dealing with maintenance, inspections, tenant queries, and end-of-tenancy issues. Ideal if you live far from the property or want a hands-off experience.

Which service should you choose?

Your choice depends on how involved you want to be. If you’re local and only have one or two rentals, the tenant-find service might be enough. If chasing rent or managing repairs doesn’t appeal, rent collection or full management could be a better fit.

Key questions to ask a letting agent:

• Who would you rent my property to?
  A good agent will carefully match tenants to your property and carry out thorough checks.
• How long does it usually take to find a tenant?
  The response should be realistic - too quick might mean poor vetting, too slow could mean poor marketing.
• What paperwork does the tenant receive at the start of a tenancy?
  Ask to ensure all legal documents are provided. You are ultimately responsible if anything’s missed.
• What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?
  Make sure the agent has a clear process for dealing with arrears and regaining possession legally.
• Do you carry out regular safety checks and inspections?
  With over 100 regulations to follow, a responsible agent will keep you informed and your property compliant.
• Are you part of a redress and Client Money Protection (CMP) scheme?
  It’s a legal requirement. If they aren't, that’s a major red flag. Agents registered with ARLA Propertymark offer additional assurance.

Choosing the right agent is just as important as choosing the right tenant. Take your time, compare services, and don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions before signing any contracts.