Who is responsible for and where to send rent overpayments?

Who is responsible for and where to send rent overpayments?

8:00 AM, 18th July 2024, About 4 weeks ago 12

Text Size

Hi, we have a fully managed property. The tenant is paid 4 weekly by housing benefit and forwards the rent to the letting agency. We have a number of other businesses and have relied on the letting agency to collect payments accurately and record them, raising any problems with us.

It has become evident that 13 payments instead of 12 have been paid for a number of years. I equated, that because the tenant receives payments 4 weekly, 52/4 =13, however, I looked carefully at the contract issued by the Letting Agent and it states PCM.

Does anyone know who the overpayments need to be repaid to our Letting Agent says it’s the tenant. I’m concerned about the DWP knocking on our door for reimbursement if we give it to the tenant.

I also want to know where the responsibility lies here, we reasonably ( I think ) expected our Letting Agent to inform us of any anomalies or issues, but we haven’t received any annual statements for our properties and it seems they simply collect, add to a ledger which only alerts them if there are arrears. I asked the Letting Agent how this happened and they said they didn’t know.

Our accountant didn’t pick up on this as they don’t have access to the rental contract and expected 13 weeks payment PA. I’ve contacted a legal advisor but I am still waiting for an appointment and getting very anxious. Anyone with experience or advice would be welcome.

Thanks,

Christina


Share This Article


Comments

Anne

Become a Member

If you login or become a member you can view this members profile, comments, posts and send them messages!

Sign Up

17:56 PM, 18th July 2024, About 4 weeks ago

Reply to the comment left by Kat Scott at 18/07/2024 - 12:32
Thanks. Good advice. This is a large franchised letting agent, we are very disappointed.

Anne

Become a Member

If you login or become a member you can view this members profile, comments, posts and send them messages!

Sign Up

17:58 PM, 18th July 2024, About 4 weeks ago

Reply to the comment left by Bill irvine at 18/07/2024 - 09:41
I will be in touch next week Bill, and thank you for your time and comments.

Leave Comments

In order to post comments you will need to Sign In or Sign Up for a FREE Membership

or

Don't have an account? Sign Up

Landlord Tax Planning Book Now