Letting agent not providing receipts for payments?

[Fennie]

Hi there,

Me and my girlfriend are currently in the process of renting a new flat together but have some concerns over how the application process for this new flat has gone.

Firstly we have handed over £175 in admins fees for the flat via BACS transfer, also we have been asked to hand over the first months rent and deposit before the contract has even been signed. Also we have requested receipts for all payments but the issue of receipts seems to be avoided.

The majority of correspondence has been conducted via email and phone.

Is it normal for renting a new property that the first months rent and deposit would be paid before any contracts or documents were signed for?

[demon_x_slash]

Hmm, we paid as we signed the documents - we signed, they get the banker's draft, thank you very much. I would start insisting on receipts. Go in to their offices in person, with your bank statement, and calmly but firmly state that you need receipts from them for this amount you gave them, and this amount, dated and signed by one of their reps.

What was the £175 'admin' for??

[Fennie]

We paid the £175 for "documentation fees". I.e. drafting of the contract, liaising with the landlord, processing of our references etc. This is what I assume it is for anyhow.

Their offices are quite far out and we are restricted by working hours and public transport but will be making a trip over there if neccessary in the future. We have spoke to them on the phone again and they have now insisted that they well provide receipts for payments made to them (about time too!).

Just need the first receipt to arrive now!

Still think it's abit strange though, receipts should be mandatory and expected anyhow and fees should be paid only when contracts are signed. But I tell you they try to get away with as much as you let them though!

[rajeshk4u]

£175 is a lot for admin fees.

Okay, they can charge you for say doing a tenants reference, but that should cost no more then say £20-£50. But charging you for a AST contract well that is not right - as they would use the same contract 'template' for all their tenants. You can go to a legal stationer's e.g. Oyez and pick it for £2, but letting agents will charge landlords or tenants £70 for this! RIP OFF!!!

I know some agencies have a 'check-in' service, but it is a waste of money....

I WOULD ONLY SIGN A CONTRACT AND PAY OVER CASH IN EXCHANGE FOR KEYS!!!!

[Fennie]

Originally Posted by rajeshk4u

£175 is a lot for admin fees.

Okay, they can charge you for say doing a tenants reference, but that should cost no more then say £20-£50. But charging you for a AST contract well that is not right - as they would use the same contract 'template' for all their tenants. You can go to a legal stationer's e.g. Oyez and pick it for £2, but letting agents will charge landlords or tenants £70 for this! RIP OFF!!!

I know some agencies have a 'check-in' service, but it is a waste of money....

I WOULD ONLY SIGN A CONTRACT AND PAY OVER CASH IN EXCHANGE FOR KEYS!!!!

I know £175 is quite a bit! but then again the average I've seen for rented accomodation here is around £200.

[rajeshk4u]

by pass the agent, look for ads by landlords advertising directly e.g. loot.com

many Landlords dont want to pay commision to agents hence deal direct. this way you can meet the landlord and see if he/she is a reasonable chap.... plus less likely any fees for you.

[rogerebaker]

Fennie.

As from April 2007 the agent has got to lodge your deposit either with a custodial scheme or with one of two insurance schemes.

They should then within 14 days tell you which scheme they have registered with and give you the details

If they fail to so this there are some serious consequences for the agent or landlord.

firstly they cant terminate your tennancy by giving you the agreed notice.

secondly You can apply to the county court for them to return your deposit plus 3 times the deposit as compensation. The court has no discretion in this they have to order the agent / Landlord to do this if they havnt secured your deposit.

If they have really ****ed you off wait 14 days and make a visit to the county court.