The Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA) supports the Department for
Communities and Local Government (DCLG) ‘How to rent’ guide, launched today. The guide
provides a helpful checklist for people who are looking for a house or flat to rent, offering
guidance through every step of the lettings process.
At a time where rental properties are highly sought after, ARLA fully supports the
Government’s initiative to ease the process of renting to tenants, and sees anything which
can support people in the rental market as a step in the right direction. The guide outlines
the rights and responsibilities you have as a tenant, and helps you to understand the
questions to ask to create and maintain a positive relationship with your landlord or letting
agent.
When choosing a property, either direct from the landlord or through a letting agent, a
tenant should ensure the agent or landlord is accredited by The Association of Residential
Lettings Agents (ARLA), as recommended by the ‘Department for Communities and Local
Government (DCLG) ‘How to rent’ guide.
Susan Fitz-Gibbon, President of ARLA, said: “Embarking on renting a property can often be a
daunting time for people, with would be tenants sometimes expected to make a quick
decision, provide extensive information and sign numerous documents before their dream
home is snapped up by someone else.
“The DCLG guide will hopefully make the rental process smoother for tenants and offers
simple, straightforward guidance for people who are looking to rent, empowering them to
make informed decisions. Before any potential tenant signs on the dotted line it’s vital they
ensure their lettings agent is accredited through a professional body, such as ARLA.
“ARLA accreditation means your landlord has a responsibility to tell you upfront what fees
and costs they will charge you, complaints from both sides will be dealt with fairly and
effectively, and you have the peace of mind of knowing your money is protected should you
have any dispute with your landlord.”
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