How to Switch Letting Agents Without the Headache

How to Switch Letting Agents Without the Headache

Your Step-by-Step Guide from Bates & Co Lettings – Serving Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate, Stone Cross & Bexhill

If you're feeling frustrated with your current letting agent, you're not alone. Many landlords across Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate, Stone Cross, and Bexhill find themselves stuck with poor service, missed compliance deadlines, or underperforming agents — but feel switching would be too stressful or complicated.

At Bates & Co Lettings, we make it simple. Here's everything you need to know to switch letting agents without the headache — and why it's often easier than you think.

When Should You Consider Switching Letting Agents?

If your current agent is:

• Failing to communicate or respond promptly
• Missing maintenance issues or allowing delays
• Not collecting rent or managing arrears effectively
• Leaving you exposed to legal or compliance risks
• Not providing value for their fees

...then it’s time to rethink who’s managing your property. A letting agent should protect your asset, secure your income, and make your life easier — not cause more stress.

How to Switch Letting Agents Step-by-Step

Here’s our proven process for making the switch as smooth as possible:

1. Review Your Existing Agreement

Check the terms of your contract with your current agent. Look for:

• Notice period (usually 1–3 months)
• Any exit fees or penalties
• Whether the agreement is sole or multi-agency

If you're unsure, we’ll happily review your contract for free and explain your options.

2. Notify Your Current Agent

Once you’ve confirmed your notice period, send a formal written notice. We can help you draft this to make the process clear and professional.

3. Inform Your Tenants

It’s essential to keep tenants informed and reassured during the switch. At Bates & Co, we handle all tenant communication on your behalf to maintain trust and avoid confusion.

4. Transfer Property Documents

We’ll liaise directly with your old agent to collect:

• Tenancy agreements
• Deposit certificates
• Maintenance history
• Compliance records (EPC, gas safety, EICR)

This ensures nothing is lost and your property remains compliant throughout the transition.

5. Switch Deposit Protection (if needed)

If your previous agent held the tenant’s deposit, we’ll ensure it’s transferred and correctly re-registered in line with legislation.

6. Take Over Management Seamlessly

From day one, we’ll:

• Carry out a full property audit
• Schedule any overdue maintenance
• Communicate with tenants
• Set up rent collection and reporting

Why Landlords Choose Bates & Co Lettings

We specialise in stress-free portfolio management across Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate, Stone Cross, and Bexhill — with local knowledge, responsive service, and full legal compliance built in.

Landlords love us for:

• Transparent fees, no hidden costs
• Expert advice on very changing legislation to ensure you are always compliant
• Full compliance management (EPC, EICR, gas safety, HMO licensing)
• Optional Guaranteed Rent Scheme or rental insurance for complete peace of mind
• Regular performance updates and property condition reports

Ready to Make the Switch? Let’s Talk.

Switching letting agents doesn’t have to be stressful. At Bates & Co Lettings, we take care of the entire process — from tenant communication to legal handover — so you don’t have to lift a finger.

📞 Call us today on 01323 844 845
📧 Or email Lettings@batesandco.co.uk

to book a free, no-obligation property review.

Serving landlords across Hailsham, Eastbourne, Polegate, Stone Cross, and Bexhill – making property management simple and stress-free.

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