Looking to sell and end of tenancy query with Estate Agent?
Hi all, Can you advise me regarding ending my fully managed contract with my letting agent?
I have read my terms of business and have given ample notice, 3 months. I have requested they confirm the transition and when will they walk away. The Agent’s response was that once the tenant returns the keys, an independent check-out will be arranged. The agent will communicate with myself, the tenant and agree on deposit deductions, if any and escalate to the deposit protection scheme if there is no agreement. This is all clear and what I would expect.
My query is the agent has advised if the tenant fails to vacate, I stay with the agent for support, and if they need to attend court (£120) fee, they will arrange this. I am fully insured with legal cover.
Am I missing something? Why do I need the LA at this stage? I am aware (should I need to make a claim?) I need to appoint a solicitor through my landlord’s legal insurance cover, otherwise, they cannot proceed with a claim (accelerated possession order).
The agent is also asking if I wish to move from Lettings to Sales (we are selling), but they have not been great. I have not included them in my initial research for a good Estate Agent and feel my next move is to call my insurance to query exactly what my policy includes.
Would the transition from Let to Sales be best placed, staying with the current agent? Is there anything I have overlooked?
Thank you
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Member Since October 2020 - Comments: 1137
1:57 PM, 21st April 2025, About 12 months ago
Reply to the comment left by Alison Clark at 21/04/2025 – 11:52
I would suggest you find some text on how to execute a deed of surrender and email it to them.
Member Since April 2024 - Comments: 284
2:59 PM, 21st April 2025, About 12 months ago
Good idea. I will look on Gov.uk. Thank you.
Member Since April 2024 - Comments: 284
3:22 PM, 28th April 2025, About 12 months ago
Reply to the comment left by DPT at 21/04/2025 – 13:57
Hi DPT.
My tenants early release date is today. The agent was arranging the key drop off at the branch with the deed of surrender to sign at the ready. Agent decided to take a lieu day and just had the branch manager on the phone stating ALL sorted tenant posted keys through the branch letter box on Saturday evening, (which I had already pre emptied this) he called up this morning to check if they had the keys. No DofS signed or emails in writing confirming the release.
My husband has just been round the back of the property and every window is wide open probably to remove the (unauthorised dog odour)the property is empty and the bins or full to the brim.
Head office have sent the tenant the dofs to sign. This is ridiculous. Any advice please. Thank you.
Member Since October 2020 - Comments: 1137
11:54 AM, 29th April 2025, About 12 months ago
You now need to make the best of the situation. Returned keys are good evidence of an implied surrender, but to protect yourself you should record as much other evidence as possible. Photos of the open windows, the full bins, the empty fridge, cupboards and bathroom cabinet etc. Also written records with dates of key events and what you found at the property. You should also insist the agent makes a verbatim note of conversations with the tenant that led up to them posting the keys.
When this is all over, definitely change agents.
Member Since April 2024 - Comments: 284
12:04 PM, 29th April 2025, About 12 months ago
Reply to the comment left by DPT at 29/04/2025 – 11:54
Thank you. Is it legal for us to go onto the property and take the photos? Just want to be sure.
Do you think if I ask the agent to contact the new agent for confirmation he is their tenant now in an email is reasonable? (They received a reference request, so assuming they have the contact details?)
We are selling and I will be asking for management fees back for this month etc! Shocking!
Thank you