For landlords · 6 min read
How to leave your letting agent (without losing your tenant)
You can usually leave a letting agent at any point by giving the notice set out in your agency agreement — most commonly one to three months — but two clauses decide whether it is cheap or expensive: an exit or withdrawal fee, and a continuing commission clause that keeps charging you while the tenant they introduced remains. Read those two before giving notice. Then demand a full handover: deposit scheme details, the signed agreement, compliance certificates, the inventory and the tenant's contact details.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice do I have to give my letting agent?
Whatever your agency agreement specifies — most commonly one to three months. Check for a fixed term and any early termination fee before serving notice, and always give notice in writing with proof of sending.
Can I leave my letting agent during a tenancy?
Yes, in most cases. The tenancy continues unchanged — it is between you and the tenant, not the agent. You take over management, and the deposit may need re-registering in your name.
What is a continuing commission clause?
A clause that keeps the agent earning commission while the tenant they introduced remains in the property, even after the agency ends. It is common and enforceable, so check for it before assuming switching removes the fee immediately.
What documents should my agent hand over?
The signed tenancy agreement and renewals, deposit scheme certificate and prescribed information, gas safety certificate, EPC, EICR, check-in inventory, rent and arrears history, tenant contact details and keys.
Do I have to tell my tenant I have left the agent?
Yes. The tenant needs to know who to pay, where to report repairs, and your correspondence address — a tenant in England and Wales is entitled to an address for serving notices.
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