This forum was set up to address the lack of information given to new tenants about prospective landlords and letting agencies.

Nearly all landlords and letting agents will insist on credit checks, references from employers and former landlords in order to ensure that a tenant fulfils their legal obligations. In addition to this, deposits are taken, rent is paid in advance, guaranteurs are required and often on top, an administration fee is levied for the pleasure of these checks.

It is very difficult, however, for a tenant to check the credentials of a prospective landlord or letting agency, particularly if they are not registered with a vetting organisation. There is no written record of whether a former tenant was satisfied with the service or whether the agency or landlord fulfilled their obligations required by law. New tenants rarely have contact with former tenants.

With almost every other service available, it is possible to check the response of the

communication between tenants and to provide knowledge about who they are entering into a contract with