Can You Change Letting Agent Mid Tenancy in North London?  

In an ideal world, your letting agent will make life easier – but what can you do if you aren’t happy with the service you’re receiving? You may assume you’re tied in until the tenancy ends, however that’s not usually the case.  

Many landlords don’t realise that you can ask to change your letting agent mid-tenancy. If you are unhappy with your current letting agents in Queens Park, Dollis Hill or Kensal Rise, read out guide to find out how to change letting agents. We explain the process you need to follow, and answer frequently asked questions about making the move. 

When should you change letting agents?  

If your agent isn’t keeping you up to date or you’re worried about how much the estate agent is charging for property management, it may be time to switch letting agents. There are many justifiable reasons why landlords become dissatisfied with their agents, whether there have been steep fee hikes, lack of action on repairs, or even failing to pass on monthly rental payments on schedule. That said, it’s important not to be hasty – make a carefully considered decision, even if you’re frustrated. 

Can you switch letting agents in the middle of a tenancy?  

Yes, you can switch letting agents during a tenancy – but check your contract carefully to help the changeover run smoothly. You may have to sit out a fixed term and/or several months’ notice period, for example.   

How easy is it to change letting agents in North London?  

It’s a common misconception that you can’t change letting agents during a tenancy, yet it can be very straightforward if you handle things correctly.  

Want to know more? When assessing a new agent, it pays to understand how much rental management typically costs and what a quality service should include — from tenant referencing through to ongoing compliance support.

How to switch letting agents mid-tenancy  

Once you decide on changing agents during the tenancy, this is the process you should follow. 

1 Check the terms of your lettings contract  

The last thing you need is to fall foul of the existing agreement, so check your contract’s terms. Examine the Terms of Business closely to establish whether you’re still in the initial fixed term period, the notice period you need to give, and whether there’s a termination fee. 

2 Search for another letting agency  

Look around for a good letting agent to manage your property going forward – they should also be able to help you manage the switch. Personal recommendations are a great way to find a trusted agent, as are online reviews.  

3 Give notice to your old agent   

Tell your original agent in writing that you intend to change letting agents. You may want to explain why you’ve come to that decision, particularly if there have been ongoing problems. 

4 Keep records & paper trail  

Make sure you put everything in writing, and request written confirmation of your notice to end the contract. If you discuss anything verbally, recap your conversation in an email. You will also need to collect tenancy documentation from your former agents, including:  

• tenancy deposit information  
• tenancy agreement 
• energy performance certificate (EPC) 
• gas safety certification 
• Right to rent paperwork 
• inventory 

5 Inform your tenants of the change  

Inform the tenants so they know there’s no cause for alarm, and issue a Section 48 notice (as outlined in the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987), giving the new agent’s name, address and contact number.

Existing tenancy agreements will still stand, as they’re separate from the contract you, the landlord, have with the letting agent. Alternatively, you can issue a new tenancy agreement but you will have to go through the accompanying steps to start a new tenancy. 

6 Clear up final details 

Take care of the last steps, including getting confirmation that the previous agent that the contract has ended – don’t leave room for confusion and unexpected bills. Make sure you have all documents and safety certificates and for security, collect copies of keys to the property and reset the alarm codes. 

Want to find out more? A good agent will help you navigate legislation such as Brent Council’s landlord licensing scheme and keep you up to date with repairing obligations under the Landlord and Tenant Act.

How much does it cost to change letting agent?  

You may have to pay your former agents a financial penalty, though if there were serious failings on their part, they may agree to waive it. There can also be associated costs if you set up a new tenancy agreement during the switch. 

What are the tenants’ rights when landlord changes letting agent?  

A landlord changing agent does not change the tenants’ rights or responsibilities. They should receive the same service from the landlord, and the new agent should pick up as seamlessly as possible. 

Remember, help is at hand in navigating the changeover as your new agent will support you in making the move. If you need a new letting agent in the West Hampstead, Kilburn or Harlesden areas, contact Portland. We’re here to provide landlords with a high level of service and help you protect your property investment.