What Does a Letting Agent Do?

Introduction

Are you a landlord struggling to manage your rental property? Or a tenant searching for your next home? Letting agents are the backbone of the rental market, ensuring smooth transactions for both parties. But what exactly does a letting agent do—and how can you find the right one for your needs?

In this guide, we’ll break down the key responsibilities of a letting agent, the benefits they offer to both landlords and tenants, and how to choose the best one for your situation.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Letting Agent?
• Key Responsibilities of a Letting Agent
• Services for Landlords
• Services for Tenants
• Why Hire a Letting Agent?
• How to Choose the Right Letting Agent
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a Letting Agent?

A letting agent is a professional or company that acts as an intermediary between landlords and tenants. Their primary role is to facilitate the rental process, ensuring that both parties fulfil their obligations while maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities of a Letting Agent

Letting agents handle a variety of tasks to ensure a seamless rental experience. Their key responsibilities include:

• Marketing rental properties – Listing properties on leading platforms, using professional photography and virtual tours.
• Tenant sourcing and referencing – Conducting background checks, credit assessments, and verifying employment details.
• Lease agreements and documentation – Preparing legally compliant tenancy agreements.
• Property maintenance and inspections – Arranging necessary repairs, conducting routine inspections, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Rent collection and financial management – Handling rental payments, security deposits, and arrears management.
• Legal compliance and dispute resolution – Ensuring adherence to landlord-tenant laws and mediating conflicts.

Services for Landlords

Letting agents provide invaluable services to landlords, helping them save time and avoid costly mistakes. These services include:

• Property Valuation – Assessing rental value based on market trends.
• Marketing & Tenant Sourcing – Advertising on portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.
• Tenant Referencing – Checking employment, credit history, and previous tenancies.
• Tenancy Agreement Drafting – Preparing legally sound contracts.
• Deposit Protection – Ensuring compliance with UK deposit schemes.
• Rent Collection & Arrears Management – Chasing late payments if needed.
• Property Maintenance – Coordinating repairs and servicing.
• Legal Compliance & Evictions – Ensuring compliance with housing laws and assisting with evictions when necessary.

Services for Tenants

For tenants, letting agents streamline the rental process, offering:

• Property Search Assistance – Helping tenants find homes that match their preferences.
• Viewing Arrangements – Scheduling and conducting property viewings.
• Application & Referencing – Assisting with paperwork and background checks.
• Deposit & Rent Handling – Ensuring payments are secure and transparent.
• Maintenance Support – Providing a point of contact for repairs and issues.
• Dispute Resolution – Assisting in conflicts with landlords.

Why Hire a Letting Agent?

Hiring a letting agent offers numerous benefits:

• Saves time and effort – They handle the complexities of property management.
• Ensures legal compliance – Reduces risk of fines or legal action.
• Maximises rental income – Effective marketing and tenant vetting lead to fewer void periods.
• Offers peace of mind – Professional oversight ensures smooth property management.

How to Choose the Right Letting Agent

When selecting a letting agent, consider the following:

• Reputation & Reviews – Check online ratings and testimonials.
• Accreditation – Look for membership in ARLA Propertymark, NAEA, or RICS.
• Fees & Services – Compare pricing and service packages.
• Local Market Knowledge – Choose agents familiar with your area.
• Customer Service – Ensure responsive and professional support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I find letting agents near me? Search by location on FindLettingAgents.co.uk to browse business listings.

What are the costs of hiring a letting agent? Fees vary based on services. Common charges include tenant-find fees (8-12% of annual rent) and full property management fees (10-15%).

Can I use a letting agent for tenant sourcing only? Yes, many agents offer tenant-find-only services, where they handle marketing and referencing but leave property management to the landlord.

Next Steps

Ready to find a letting agent you can trust? Search our directory now to compare verified letting agents in your area and connect with experts who specialise in HMO rentals, short-term lets, or property management. Visit FindLettingAgents.co.uk today!