Legal housing law support for letting agents

As a letting agent, ensuring that properties are properly licensed is one of your key legal duties. This is especially crucial if you manage Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), where failure to comply with licensing laws could lead to hefty fines or even a criminal record.

We provide clear guidance on the types of licences needed and help you navigate local authority regulations to ensure full compliance.

Dealing with problem tenants or ending a tenancy can be one of the most stressful aspects of being a letting agent. The process for legally repossessing a property is complex, with strict rules around notice periods, grounds for eviction, and court procedures. One wrong move and you could find yourself facing a lengthy delay or even a wrongful eviction claim.

Our specialist solicitors are experts in the repossession process and can guide you through the legal steps, ensuring the correct procedures are followed to regain possession of your property swiftly and legally.

Handling tenant deposits is another crucial responsibility. Under the Housing Act 2004, all deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme, and the tenant must be provided with specific information within 30 days of receiving the deposit. Failing to comply can result in significant penalties, including the inability to serve a Section 21 notice and paying up to three times the deposit amount in compensation.

We’ll ensure you’re compliant with all deposit protection rules and help resolve any disputes that may arise.

Keeping properties safe and compliant with health and safety regulations is a legal requirement for all letting agents. This includes ensuring that gas safety checks are up to date, electrical systems are safe, and properties meet the required energy performance standards (EPCs). Additionally, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be properly installed, and checks regularly maintained.

Our team will help you navigate these regulations, so your properties are always in line with legal requirements, protecting you from liability.

Disputes between landlords and tenants are unfortunately common, and they can escalate quickly if not handled properly. We provide practical legal solutions that help resolve conflicts efficiently, whether it’s a disagreement over repairs, rent arrears, or breach of tenancy agreements. With our support, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that any issues are addressed with professionalism and in full compliance with the law.

Licensing laws can vary significantly depending on local authorities and the type of property you manage. Our solicitors will ensure you have the correct licences in place, especially for HMOs, and help you avoid common pitfalls that could lead to legal action or fines. We take the complexity out of the process so you can focus on running your business.

When a tenancy comes to an end, or you need to regain possession of your property, it’s crucial to follow the correct legal procedures. We help you manage the entire repossession process, from serving the appropriate notices to representing you in court if necessary. Our expertise ensures that you can legally and efficiently regain possession of your property without the risk of costly delays or disputes.

If a tenant or landlord has made a complaint about your services, it’s essential to act quickly and get expert legal advice. Whether the complaint is about unfair practices, failure to meet legal obligations, or disputes over deposits, we can defend your position and protect your reputation. Our solicitors have a deep understanding of the complexities of housing law and can effectively respond to claims, ensuring that your interests are protected.