UK Landlord Forum / Life

I had an altercation with my Letting Agent following a dispute involving his plumber who didn't carry out quoted work and tried to claim for extra work which was proved not to be necessary. It resulted in me going to Small Claims Court and the Agent settling out of court for a reduced sum. The Agent now (1 week later!)wants to increase his management fee from 10% to 12.5% and has sent me a new contract to sign. I have no intention of signing a new contract for an increased fee. Am I right in saying that any cancellation or amendments to a contract must be agreed by both parties to the contract and that it can't be altered by one party only? Hope someone can advise me asap please. Thanks. wokadad.

I wonder if the agent is trying to recoup some of his costs here?  I wouldn't be happy to sign it part way through a contract, and would certainly tackle it.

Perhaps you could work out the answer to that question by phoning the agent pretending to be a new landlord and wanting to know what their fees would be??  Get a friend to do it if you think your voice will be recognised. 

Once you have that information then you can tackle them from an informed position.  Agents can play hard ball, but two can play at that. 

I had a similar problem with a letting agent and took it to the small claims court, they settled outside in the end. It was evident that they had always intended to settle but just wanted to push and push to see if I would break.

It is no wonder whatsoever why letting agencies have such bad reputations. They are clearing trying to recoup their costs and make a quick book. Read their Terms & Conditions, if it says they can increase management fees whenever they like you might have no option in the matter (perhaps go to ARLA or similar to complain but I don't think you will get much joy if you agreed terms & conditions)

If the T&C's do not give any express indication that they can increase fees then do the following:

1) refuse to allow them
2) tell them you want to end the contract straightaway (at no cost to you) because they are clearly being unfair
3) if they won't let you break the contract tell them you are taking them to court again.

I hate letting agents. Sorry, I just do. Some are ok but most are snakes.