Renting trust
Recommendations for the operation of the private rental sector and regulations for letting agents are things I applaud.
With stricter controls in place, there is a framework for increasing the knowledge and awareness of landlords and tenants, setting the right expectations for people and their homes. But I would go further.
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Hide AdExpertise within the industry needs to be recognised with formal qualifications and there needs to be a benchmark for good governance, including the handling of client money.
A license to operate, with penalties for those who fall short of the standards required, should not be out of the question.
Not everything is going to happen at once and every letting agency will have to face up to new and different challenges.
However, the steps taken now will embed greater trust and improve the reputation of the industry all round.
Malcolm Cannon
Braemore
North Charlotte Street