Legal News

A law lecturer who is taking on estate agent Foxtons over its charges for managing a property he rents out has said many other landlords have now come forward with similar tales of being overcharged for managing agents’ fees.

Dr Chris Townley from King’s College London is taking Foxtons to court over a £616 bill for repairing a light fitting, part of which comprises an administration fee which Dr Townley said was not part of the contract he had with the agency.

He says many more private sector landlords using managing agents have come forward over fears they have been overcharged – and he is calling for more transparency in the private lettings sector and from managing agents.

“This behaviour is wrong, morally and legally,” said Dr Townley.

“Foxtons has never apologised properly – they do not even think they have done anything wrong.

“I’m happy to carry on fighting and I hope it pushes them to change their behaviour,” he added.

Dr Townley only became aware of the charge added to the bill recently when he went through the paperwork.

He had contacted an electrician who fitted the light fitting because he was not happy with the work and wanted it done again – and then found out that the charge for the job had been £412.50.

Foxtons had, however, added 33% in commission to the invoice he was sent without the charge being made clear, he alleges.

Dr Townley had agreed to pay Foxtons 17% plus VAT commission under his contract with them.

Foxtons has until July to respond to initial correspondence before court proceedings commence.

However, the company said it had nothing to add to a previous statement.

“We are satisfied though that our fees are clearly laid out within our terms and conditions and that approvals are obtained from our landlords before works commence on their property.

“As part of our managed service to our landlords we arrange for maintenance works to be carried out on their behalf from a panel of carefully vetted and trusted contractors.

“Due to the volume of work we provide we are able to achieve discounted rates offering competitive value with the benefit of efficiency, availability and quality of work that many landlords would not be able to achieve on their own.

“We are incredibly disappointed to hear when any customer is dissatisfied with the service they have received.

“However, as a legal dispute, we are not in a position to comment on the specifics of this case.”

Dr Townley is also querying whether subcontractors have to pay managing agents commission to be eligible to carry out work under large contracts.

Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors

Duncan Lewis housing solicitors can advise landlords on their obligations under the terms of a tenancy agreement – and Duncan Lewis also has a successful litigation department able to advise on legal action and mediation in disputes with tenants or management companies in the private and public rental sectors.

For expert legal advice on landlords’ obligations and UK housing law, call Duncan Lewis housing solicitors on 020 7923 4020.