Landlord guide
How to change letting agents with a tenant in situ
Switching agents with a tenant already in place is common and straightforward. Give your current agent the required written notice, arrange for the deposit and keys to transfer, and tell your tenant the new agent's details before the changeover date. The tenancy agreement itself does not need to be reissued. Most landlords complete the process within two to four weeks depending on notice periods.
Step 1: check the notice period
Read your current management agreement for the notice period and any exit fee. Serve notice in writing and keep a copy for your records.
Step 2: line up the new agent
Agree a start date with the new agent that follows on from your notice period ending, so there is no gap in who is managing the property.
Step 3: move the deposit and documents
Ask the outgoing agent for the tenancy agreement, gas safety certificate, EPC and deposit protection certificate. Confirm with the new agent whether the deposit needs to be re-registered.
- Tenancy agreement and any signed addendums
- Gas safety certificate and EICR
- Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information
- Inventory and check-in report
Step 4: tell the tenant
Write to the tenant confirming the new agent's name, contact details and payment instructions from the changeover date, so rent does not go to the wrong place.
