What does a good letting agent do? A letting agent acts as an intermediary between landlord and tenant, handling the entire rental process from marketing through to ongoing management. The best agents do far more than simply place a tenant; they: • Understand legislation and compliance. The UK private rented sector is governed by more than 70 pieces of legislation. Good agents have up‑to‑date knowledge of the legal and regulatory framework and advise landlords on current and upcoming requirements such as eviction rules or energy standards. They are usually members of professional bodies (ARLA, UKALA) and ensure landlords comply with their legal obligations. • Market and let your property effectively. Agents visit the property, assess its rental value and create high‑quality marketing materials. They list on specialist portals, arrange viewings and proactively seek suitable tenants. • Screen tenants and handle paperwork. Good agents’ vet prospective tenants by checking identity, immigration status, employment, references and affordability. They draw up legally binding tenancy agreements and carry out inventory checks at the start and end of tenancies. • Collect rent and manage arrears. They collect rent each month, chase late payments and handle renewals. • Arrange repairs and maintenance. Agents organise routine maintenance and emergency repairs using trusted contractors, inspect the property regularly (often every six months) and ensure it meets health and safety standards. • Provide specialist market knowledge. They have insight into local rent levels, tenant demand and market trends, helping landlords set competitive rents and plan refurbishments. Why professional management matters Managing a rental property is time‑consuming. Without expert help, landlords risk void periods, unvetted tenants and legal penalties. A full‑management service handles the day‑to‑day running of the property, freeing landlords’ time and ensuring compliance. Regular inspections and maintenance protect the property’s value and provide peace of mind. As legislative changes accelerate (see next blog), the support of a qualified, well‑resourced agent becomes essential.