New measures to protect renters in Gedling from eye-watering letting agent fees have been set out by the government today (7).
The proposed ban will stop hidden charges and end tenants being hit by costly upfront payments that can be difficult to afford.
The move will bring an end to the small minority of agents exploiting their role between renters and landlords, banish unfair charges being imposed and stop those agents that double charge tenants and property owners for the same service.
The proposals will also ban any letting agent fees being charged to tenants by landlords and other third parties. This stops tenants having to pay fees through the back door by other routes.
The measures will improve competition in the rental market and further drive up standards by placing the onus on landlords to shop around for more competitive fees for services they pay for.
Housing Minister Gavin Barwell said: “We’re determined to make all types of housing more affordable and secure for ordinary working people.
“Tenants should only be required to pay their rent alongside a refundable deposit and not face hidden fees.”
A report from the charity Shelter found that nearly 1 in 4 people in England and Wales feel that they have been charged unfair fees by a letting agent.
Fee levels vary considerably and the charity found that 1 in 7 tenants pay more than £500.
