Lettings agency Connells in Halesowen is urging landlords, buy-to-let investors and tenants to choose their lettings agency wisely in the wake of calls for regulation of lettings agents by Shadow Housing Minister Jack Dromey.

However, rather than advocating further red tape and legislation, Connells is advising landlords and tenants to opt for a lettings agent that is self-regulating with a proven track record and processes.

According to Lettings Manager Mike Ferrier, anyone with property to let or those looking for rental accommodation should ask their lettings agent a number of key questions.

“I would encourage anyone looking for lettings services to ask what lettings qualifications the branch staff have and what services they offer in addition to simply matching tenants with properties,” he said.

“Connells offers a wide range of lettings services to protect both the landlord and tenant and are internally regulated by a central, dedicated Compliance and Legal Services team, not to mention being a member of The Property Ombudsman Service (TPOS) for residential lettings.”

He added: “Our professional inventory service, for example, which is completed by a third-party company, offers all parties peace of mind and we comply with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme so deposits are protected in the instance of a dispute.”

Connells is also advising anyone looking for lettings services to consider the range of services an agency can offer.

According to the local agent, matching tenants to properties should be just one aspect of a fully comprehensive lettings service covering property management, rent processing, repairs and maintenance management, day-to-day contact with tenants, vacant property services, professional inventories, check in and out procedures, deposit protection schemes, landlords and tenant insurance and much more.

Connells Lettings in Halesowen can be contacted on 0121 504 0809 or by email at halesowenlet@connells.co.uk