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Letting agents in Haringey, north London, have been fined more than £100,000 for breaching tenant protection regulations and putting renters at risk.
The violations include failures to comply with Client Money Protection (CMP) rules and not clearly displaying fees, as required under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
A total of 16 agents across the borough have received penalty notices, with half issued multiple fines. Offending agencies operate in areas such as Harringay, West Green, Tottenham Hale, Noel Park, Alexandra Palace, Tottenham Central, South Tottenham, and Hornsey.
CMP schemes are designed to protect rental income and deposits, ensuring that landlords and tenants do not lose money if a letting agent collapses or commits fraud. The rules are intended to improve transparency and accountability within the private rental sector.
Most fines have already been paid, with the remainder being addressed through agreed payment plans.
Cllr Sarah Williams, cabinet member for housing and planning and deputy leader of the council, commented: “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.
“The council urges tenants and landlords to report any concerns. Transparency and compliance help keep the housing market fair for everyone.”
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