LETTINGS agents and property managers in Hackney are being investigated by the Council to make sure they’re displaying certain fees they charge in accordance with the law – or face a £5,000 fine.

Introductory fees, also for arranging assured shorthold tenancies, and for management must all be on show in shop premises and on websites.

There are more than 270 lettings agents and property managers operating in Hackney, and the displayed fees list must include:

• an adequate description of each fee and its purpose
• whether the fee is payable for the accommodation or by each tenant
• the total amount of the fee inclusive of all taxes
• the method of calculating the fee, if the fee cannot be determined in advance

In England only, lettings agents and property managers must also display the following:

• a statement regarding whether the business is a member of a client money protection scheme
• a statement that they are a member of a redress scheme and the name of that scheme, where applicable

Earlier this year Hackney Council called on the government to make it compulsory for lettings agents and property managers to explain their fees, among other measures, through the 10 Steps to better private renting campaign.

If you know of a lettings agent or property manager that isn’t complying with the law, contact the Council’s Trading Standards team on 020 8356 4929, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, or email info@hackney.gov.uk

Sign the Council’s petition to the government for better private renting at www.hackney.gov.uk/10-Steps