Using a professional lettings agency is one of the best things anyone can do when they are looking to rent a home, says Malcolm Harrison of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme.

The scheme, which was launched in 2007, protects tenants' deposits against unscrupulous landlords and helps to resolve disputes. It has been actively embraced by estate agencies and Mr Harrison believes this is to the client’s benefit.

He said that while there remains some “bad eggs” amongst both landlords and tenants, the scheme has made relationships far more harmonious – especially when it’s looked after by a registered agency.

Indeed, resent research by ARLA found that tenants are now staying in rented property for much longer periods than they have in previous years.

“The advantage of going to a regulated agency is that the landlord can be assured that the client money is protected so the arrears will be protected. Importantly for the tenant, his deposit will be protected,” Mr Harrison stated.

He added that accidental landlords should look to work with agencies in particular, especially if it is the first property.

Landlord and Tenant News