Propertymark is urging for letting agents to be included in Andy Burnham’s Good Landlord Charter, a program aimed at “empowering renters” and improving standards in the private and social rented sectors.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority reports that over 40% of tenants in the region utilize the services of letting agents. Despite this significant usage, Propertymark argues that the current version of the charter neglects the role of letting agents.

A Missed Opportunity

Tim Thomas, policy and campaigns officer at Propertymark, voiced concerns over the charter’s current framework. “The Good Landlords Charter, in its proposed form, will be a missed opportunity to engage with letting agents,” said Thomas. “It is important to all involved that they demonstrate good practice, but so far, the Good Landlords Charter for the Greater Manchester area only includes private and social landlords. It is disappointing that there is no current provision for agents to engage with this process. Propertymark will continue to promote the Good Landlords Charter but remain keen for agents to play a much greater role within the process.”

Call for Enhanced Roles

Propertymark highlights that letting agents are more likely than individual landlords to possess the necessary accreditation and training. The organization also notes that letting agents are required to join a government-approved redress scheme and have Client Money Protection, measures not mandated for individual landlords. Propertymark believes incorporating these standards into the charter would enhance consumer protection.

Additionally, Propertymark has called on West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram to consider involving letting agents more substantially if they proceed with similar charters, as both mayors proposed in their election manifestos.

As the conversation on rental sector reforms continues, Propertymark remains steadfast in advocating for the recognition and inclusion of letting agents to ensure a comprehensive approach to renter empowerment and property management standards.