London borough becomes first council to set up lettings agency

The London Borough of Haringey has launched what is claimed to be the first council-run lettings agency in the country.

The announcement comes in the same week that Leeds City Council said it was considering setting up an agency in a bid to improve standards in the private rented sector.

Haringey’s agency, Move 51˚ North, will be operated by the local authority’s housing management company, Homes for Haringey. More information about the agency can be found on its website.

The London borough said the agency would be a not-for profit body and protect tenants “from the scourge of rip-off fees and charges”.

It added: “Move 51˚ North will match responsible landlords with tenants who often face unwarranted rent hikes, exorbitant contract renewal fees and poor service from traditional lettings companies.”

Cllr Alan Strickland, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration at Haringey, said: “Private tenants in London are too often forgotten in the noisy debate about the housing market in our city. Haringey is fast becoming one of London’s most popular places to live and work, and we know many people prefer the flexibility of the private rented sector – which is why it’s vital we do more to protect them from rogue landlords and unscrupulous lettings firms.”