Agents want to use new utility provider?

Agents want to use new utility provider?

13:15 PM, 15th May 2017, About 7 years ago 4

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I use an agent to manage my properties and they are starting to use Tenant Shop to manage tenant changes for utility companies etc. I have googled them and they seem to get reasonable reviews, they make their money by moving tenants utility providers, and seem to give a kick back to the letting agents.

So from the agents point of view they have less work and a new income stream. They are offering me free gas and electricity for void periods (up to £15) . Which to be honest is something of nothing as many utility companies don’t charge Landlords for voids anyway.

I Just wondered if any landlords out there had any experience of this and how other agents split the proceeds etc.

Thanks

Sue


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Comments

Nick Pope

11:09 AM, 20th May 2017, About 7 years ago

I would only comment that they are your agents and should be informing you of any profits they make out of that management contract. perhaps you should allow them to do it provided you are paid 50% of the kick-back!

Jay James

13:40 PM, 21st May 2017, About 7 years ago

I manage utilities myself thank you very much. That way I'm sure of getting the best prices. Agents and other middle men making money off it should be hanged (metaphorically of course).
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Since the supply contract is between occupier and power company, it is for the occupier to sort this out, isn't it? Please explain to me if I'm wrong.

Sue P

15:57 PM, 21st May 2017, About 7 years ago

Jay

Of course occupiers can choose their oun utility companies. The letting agent gives Tenant Shop the closing / opening readings and they liaise with the ongoing tenants. They also notify the local council.
This saves the agent a chunk of admin. If the tenants sign up with a supplier through Tenant Shop, then the agent gets a small commission.
There is no pressure for the Tenant to use them, but they will have some decent deals.
As I said in the original question, they have good reviews,

Sue P

15:58 PM, 21st May 2017, About 7 years ago

Reply to the comment left by "Jay James" at "21/05/2017 - 13:40":

Jay

Of course occupiers can choose their oun utility companies. The letting agent gives Tenant Shop the closing / opening readings and they liaise with the ongoing tenants. They also notify the local council.
This saves the agent a chunk of admin. If the tenants sign up with a supplier through Tenant Shop, then the agent gets a small commission.
There is no pressure for the Tenant to use them, but they will have some decent deals.
As I said in the original question, they have good reviews,

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