Protection through paperwork

Deposits need to be held safely to protect both the tenant and the landlord, so much so that it’s a legal requirement for lettings agents and landlords to protect deposits in a Government approved scheme.

“It’s equally important to recognise that serving the correct paperwork on the tenant is just as important as protecting the deposit itself,” explains Eleanor Mulligan, senior lettings negotiator at our Storrington lettings office. “Without the paperwork in place, the landlord could be potentially liable for legal repercussions.”

Landlords who fail to serve the right documents or correctly register their tenant’s deposit  at the right time can be fined up to three times the value of the deposit and may not be able to regain possession of their property so it’s vital for all sides to get the paperwork in order.

“The landlord needs to have confidence that their agent will be doing this on their behalf as part of the service. Within appropriate timescales the tenant should receive a copy of the deposit scheme details, prescribed information and a copy of the certificate in addition to other applicable documents that must be served before a tenancy commences,” advises Eleanor.  

“We are constantly keeping themselves up to date with changes in the lettings industry and with varying case law in recent months concerning deposit protection, landlords can be sure that we stay up-to-date and can make them aware of any changing responsibilities.”

Henry Adams Lettings is a member of one of the government’s tenancy deposit schemes (TDS)  and a member of SafeAgent, so clients can be assured they are fully bonded and insured, again giving clients reassurance.

“We pride ourselves on providing a high level of success in finding tenants and managing properties,” says Eleanor, “but we’re also here to protect our landlords and to make sure tenants also get the right service.”

For more information contact our Storrington lettings team on 01903 745511 or get in touch with any of our lettings offices across West Sussex.