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What Does a Letting Agent Actually Do? A Landlord’s Guide.

Wed 30 Jul 2025

What Does a Letting Agent Actually Do? A Landlord’s Guide.

Introduction

Whether you're a first-time landlord or have a growing portfolio, understanding what a letting agent does can help you decide how best to manage your property. From finding the right tenants to navigating legislation and keeping your property compliant, a letting agent offers much more than simply collecting rent.

At Scriven & Co, we manage properties across Halesowen, Quinton, Oldbury and the surrounding areas, and in this article, we explain what’s typically included in a letting agent’s service—and why it matters.

1. Marketing the Property

It starts with visibility. A letting agent will professionally market your property using online portals (like Rightmove), in-branch displays, and social media. This includes:

  • Taking high-quality photographs

  • Writing compelling descriptions

  • Advising on realistic rental values based on local demand

  • Conducting viewings and vetting applicants

Why it matters: A well-marketed property attracts the right tenants faster, helping to minimise void periods.

2. Referencing and Tenancy Agreements

A letting agent will carry out comprehensive tenant referencing, including:

  • Employment and income checks

  • Credit history

  • Previous landlord references

Once a suitable tenant is found, the agent draws up the tenancy agreement in line with current legislation.

Why it matters: Good referencing reduces the risk of rent arrears or tenancy disputes, and a legally compliant tenancy agreement protects both parties.

3. Handling Deposits

Letting agents collect and register deposits with a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme (TDP), as legally required.

Why it matters: Correctly registering the deposit avoids penalties and protects the landlord’s position in case of a dispute at the end of the tenancy.

4. Routine Inspections and Maintenance

Throughout the tenancy, a good letting agent will:

  • Carry out routine inspections

  • Liaise with tenants regarding issues

  • Organise necessary repairs using trusted local contractors

  • Keep landlords informed of any developments

Why it matters: Regular property checks help identify minor issues before they become costly problems.

5. Rent Collection and Arrears Management

Many letting agents also offer a rent collection or full management service. At Scriven & Co, we only offer a fully managed service to ensure we can provide the best service possible. This includes:

  • Collecting monthly rent

  • Chasing arrears promptly

  • Issuing relevant legal notices if needed

Why it matters: Reliable rent collection ensures your investment stays profitable and protects your cash flow.

6. Legal Compliance and Certification

Letting agents ensure that your property remains compliant with the law by monitoring:

  • Gas Safety Certificates

  • Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR)

  • Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)

  • Fire and carbon monoxide alarm requirements

  • Right to Rent checks

Why it matters: Staying compliant avoids fines and ensures the safety of your tenants.

Conclusion

Letting a property is a serious responsibility. Whether you live locally or further afield, using a professional letting agent like Scriven & Co can give you peace of mind that your property, tenants, and legal obligations are all being taken care of. As well as the additional benefit of always having a friendly member of the team to speak to at the end of the phone. Being a smaller agency, you will get to know the members of staff in our team quickly, and have the benefit of being able to speak to the person who has been out to visit your property, and met your tenant.

�� Want to find out more? Contact our team today for a no-obligation chat about our lettings services - 0121 422 4011 (option 2 for lettings) or you can always email us on: [email protected]