to think this is out of order?

[FashionableCat]

We are moving out of the flat we currently rent next month, so obviously the landlord is looking for new tenants.

This is handled by an estate agent. A viewing was scheduled yesterday while we were at work, and today the EA called us to say the people came to view the flat but we weren't in to show them around. The EA never told us we had to show them around, we assumed the EA would be doing that.

Furthermore, the EA then informed us the viewers are coming at 9am tomorrow to see the flat. The EA didn't even ask us if that was okay, just informed us that was happening.

Tomorrow we have a moving van coming to take our posessions to our new property, so it will be chaos. We told the EA, can't they come next week as the flat will be empty (we are leaving before our tenancy finishes). He said no, they are coming tomorrow.

Does the EA have the right to do this? I know we are leaving and the landlord wants new tenants, but surely they should ask us if it's okay for viewers to come at certain times.

[PlainSpeakingStraightTalking]

Are you still the tenants? If so, then no, the EA cannot demand anything.

[Romanov]

I don't know. but reading from here, you have the right to 'quiet enjoyment' and I think that they have to probably give you notice?

[BeetGo]

The EA is a CF and no they can't do that.

[Jackshouse]

Nope they can’t do that.

[hidinginthenightgarden]

I can see both side. A miscommunication means that viewers turned up and had their time wasted. The EA does not want to loose a potential "sale" so has agreed tomorrow and does not want to let them down again.
I don't think it is a big issue for one of you to breifly show them round for 5 mins and then tell them you need to get on but they can have a look themselves. I hate being shown around property anyway. I feel I have to be fake about my expressions.

[Drum2018]

I wouldn't oblige but then I'm a stubborn cow.

[Bayleyf]

Hiding no way should OP need to let the viewers in and let them look around themselves! Would you seriously be happy with total strangers, wandering round your house, with all your possessions in, without anyone there?

OP you're under no obligation to let them view it while you're still tenants, let alone order you around like that.

[FashionableCat]

Yes we are still the tenants for another 2 weeks

[Whocansay]

I'd happily explain to the prospective new tenants what the EA was doing to you. I'd make it clear that they can expect the same treatment should they choose to move in.

[dreamyflower]

No they can't! If you're still the tenant you have the right and it has to be 24 hours notice at the minimum. We refused viewers when we were moving out as we had a baby and they were coming in during bedtimes and naptime etc. They can wait a.few more days. The estate agent sounds bloody rude! How dare he say they are coming.

[Pugwash1]

Pretty sure that they have to ask if it's convenient which it clearly isn't. Added to that as EA's it's their job to show people around; why should you do their job for them? You won't be getting a cut of the commission and as it's not your property you aren't benefitting from the sale. Also from a different perspective and shortly about to become a landlord myself, I wouldn't want somone to be shown around a property in the normal disarray and chaos of moving house. You only get one shot at making a first impression.

[Rahul88]

I got asked to do this. I accidentally told the viewers that the landlord was rubbish. They didn’t ask again.

[watsmyname]

No you don't have to. I would let the landlord know as well. He is paying for a service that does not meet reasonable expectations.

[EwItsAHooman]

Regardless of how much notice they give, they have no right to insist on viewings taking place and you have no obligation to allow them access. I'd be telling them absolutely no for the viewing tomorrow and if the prospective tenants show up then don't let them in because you're busy.