Unreasonable agency lettings contract…?

[Hazelwood1]

We are wondering whether to use a standard high street to rent out house (we have never rented before). However, their contract seems unfairly biased in their favour eg if the same tenant stays then we have to stay with the agency for six years and there is no clause to say we can leave them in their service is unsatisfactory - only downgrade from management to lettings with 3 months notice. Also if a tenant leaves within the first 36 months then they get 3 months exclusive right to find a new tenant but either way we still have to go on paying them until the end of the 36 months…? Just wondering what you think is a fair and workable and what you have agreed to? Thanks

I agree with you OP, but have not let out a property so can't comment from that perspective. As somebody that has regularly rented there is a massive difference in the 'management' that they undertake. I aim to get some local feedback on who is good and who not so. Could you ask on any local forums eg Facebook? or mention the area here. Ask tenants as well as landlords.

I’d shop around for another agency. We let 2 flats with 2 different agencies and neither has these kind of clauses. Both have a 6 month notice period if you want to switch tenancies and if they introduced the tenant to you then there’s a fee to pay. When a tenant leaves the contract comes to an end and you’re free to choose another agent.

I've rented out a house and the contract was nothing like that. I'd look for another agent. Have you checked the letting agency on Trustpilot? You might find it's regarded as a scam.