If you're a landlord who's dissatisfied with your current letting agent, whether due to poor communication, high fees, or ongoing issues with property management, you may be wondering how easy it is to switch.
The good news is, changing letting agents in the UK can be a straightforward process if you know what to look out for.
In this blog post, we'll walk you through how to change letting agents smoothly and legally — without disrupting your tenants or breaching your contract.
1. Review Your Current Contract
Before making any moves, take a close look at your agreement with your current letting agent. Key things to check are:
Notice period: Most contracts require 1–3 months’ notice.
Termination clauses: Look out for any exit fees or early termination penalties.
Ongoing obligations: Some contracts have “continuation clauses” that entitle the agent to fees even after the contract ends, especially if the tenant remains in the property.
Tip: If you're unsure about the terms, seek legal advice or consult a landlord association.
2. Give Proper Notice
Once you’ve reviewed the agreement, you’ll need to give written notice to terminate the contract. Ensure you:
Follow the correct notice period.
Keep a record of the notice given (email or recorded post is ideal).
Confirm the end date and request written acknowledgement from the agent.
Note - with our free letting agent switching service we can help you with everything
3. Inform Your Tenants
It’s important to keep your tenants in the loop to avoid confusion or disruption. Let them know:
That you’re changing agents (or taking over yourself).
When the new arrangements will take effect.
Who their point of contact will be moving forward (for rent, repairs, etc.).
This helps maintain trust and ensures rent continues to be paid correctly.
4. Choose Your New Letting Agent
If you haven’t already found a new letting agent, look for one that offers:
Transparent fees.
Good communication and customer service.
Strong local knowledge.
Proven experience with compliance (e.g., Right to Rent checks, deposit protection, licensing).
Don’t be afraid to ask for references or reviews from other landlords.
5. Coordinate the Handover
Your new letting agent can usually help manage the switch. They may liaise with the outgoing agent to collect:
Tenant contact details.
Tenancy agreement and deposit information.
Keys and property inventory.
Any maintenance history.
Make sure the deposit is correctly transferred to the new deposit protection scheme (or updated with the same scheme if staying put).
6. Update Legal Documents
Ensure all tenancy documentation reflects the change in management. This includes:
Section 48 Notice: This must be served to the tenant to confirm the new address for serving notices.
Standing order/rent payment instructions: Ensure tenants know where to send rent going forward.
Thinking Of Switching Letting Agents?
Changing letting agents doesn’t have to be a hassle, with clear communication, attention to your contract, and the right support, the transition can be smooth and beneficial for both you and your tenants.
If you’re not getting the service you expect, don’t settle. A competent and proactive agent can make a significant difference to your rental experience and property returns.
We can help you change letting agents quickly and smoothly, find out more about our free switching service
Maddie Lancaster is an ARLA qualified letting agent with over 10 years of experience in the UK rental market. Rent East Yorkshire specialises in property management services for landlords across the East Riding of Yorkshire.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Specific legal advice should be sought for particular circumstances.
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