Tenant find service only

Hi, Is it possible for an agent to only find you a tenant and reference them on your behalf – or do you have to be tied into using their AST too?
Yes it is. But if you insist on your own document, you need to ensure that they use the right AST and that you keep it up to date on renewals.
I have used an agent in the past but she insisted on using her AST and not mine (which seemed far more comprehensive and detailed for both me and tenant).
Cannot comment without reviewing both ASTs
More emphasis on reference checking these days than ever so I’m nervous about doing this myself. Referencing has always been important. If you are nervous, either don't do it or find out how it is done. In some cases talking with a tenant, preferably in person, will reveal matters, good and bad, that referencing will not.
I can’t quite understand what checks need to be done.
What if a guarantor is needed – how is this documented and how is that agreed?
The agents should deal with that. The guarantee should either be in the AST or in a separate deed. In my experience agents often make a mess of this. If guarantees are not drawn up and executed correctly, the guarantor may be able to avoid liability.
Do you need a solicitor involved? No. Except for high value lettings the additional fees will be disproportionate.
How easy is it to actually pursue money owed down this route? If the guarantee is properly drawn up and there is an address for service - I have seen guarantees with no address for the guarantor!- then a claim can be easily be made. Guarantors will also put pressure on the tenant. They don't want to subsidise their relative/friend.
Not sure if having someone without a guarantor is actually easier? Easier for what? There is more work in setting the guarantee up than if you don't have one. If the tenant defaults, it is much easier to get paid and, if the tenant's circumstances change - e.g. job loss - much easier to persuade them to leave.

Why would you want to do this? Tenant selection is the most important part of the job and relatively easy for a landlord to do. Why do you want to give it to someone who has no incentive to pass you their good tenants as they won't be managing them?

I understand your hesitancy - too many stories of things going wrong and LL's picking up the mess so the idea of using an agent is appealing.

Actually you raise a good point - how do you know what a good guarantee/guarantor form looks like?

I assume if you use an agent their guarantee form is one that has been 'ratified' by their trading/governing body so should have the ability to be used for its purpose if the time came.