For landlords · 6 min read
Rent collection vs full management: which service do you need?
Letting agents sell three tiers. Lettings-only finds and references a tenant, sets up the tenancy and hands it over, usually for a one-off fee. Rent collection adds collecting rent and chasing arrears for an ongoing percentage. Full management adds repairs, inspections and compliance renewals and is the only tier where someone attends the property. Hamptons, Knight Frank and Chestertons all publish variations of this structure. Choose on one question: do you need a person physically at the property, or just the paperwork done?
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between rent collection and full management?
Rent collection covers collecting rent, issuing statements and chasing arrears. Full management adds repairs, contractor management, periodic inspections and compliance renewals, and is the only tier that includes someone attending the property.
Is full management worth it?
It is worth it if you need a person physically at the property — overseas landlords, large portfolios, or anyone who does not want to handle emergencies. If you mainly want referencing, paperwork and compliance handled, that is administration and does not require a percentage of rent.
Do letting agents mark up repairs?
Many take a commission on contractor work, often a percentage of the invoice. It is rarely prominent in the headline fee, so ask directly whether the agent takes any commission or markup on maintenance before signing.
Can I switch service tier with my agent?
Usually yes, subject to your agency agreement. Moving from full management to rent collection or lettings-only mid-tenancy is common, but check notice requirements and whether the initial commission or a continuing commission clause still applies.
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