Local letting agents in Haringey have been fined over £100,000 for breaking tenant protection laws and putting renters at risk.
Agents have breached Client Money Protection rules and failed to display clear fees, breaking the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Sixteen agents across the borough have been issued penalty notices, with half of them receiving multiple fines. These agents operate in various neighbourhoods including Harringay, West Green, Tottenham Hale, Noel Park, Alexandra Palace, Tottenham Central, South Tottenham, and Hornsey.
Client Money Protection safeguards rent and deposits, ensuring landlords and tenants do not lose their money if an agent goes bust or commits fraud. The legislation in place is key to building trust and accountability across the housing sector.
PAYMENT PLANS
Most of the fines have already been settled, while the remaining cases are being managed through agreed payment plans.
Cllr Sarah Williams, Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning and Deputy Leader of the Council, says: “With over 100 letting agents in the borough, we must ensure they are meeting their legal obligations. This gives tenants and landlords confidence that their money is secure and that they have access to dispute the issue if needed.
“We are committed to providing housing that is safe, secure and compliant. Agents who fail to comply and put residents at risk, will face the consequences.”
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, agents cannot charge for unauthorised payments, but few complaints are made, possibly because tenants fear losing their homes.
