Agent fabricated a landlord reference

Landlord Discussion
1

I used an agent to source new tenants and was presented with what seemed to be a completed landlord reference.
Rather than a letter or email it was a completed form with questions such as “Would you rent again to these tenants? Yes” - clearly implying the landlord was giving a positive reference.

Turns out the landlord had refused to give a reference because of damage caused by the tenants.
I only found out by getting the landlords contact details and calling them directly, otherwise I wouldn´t have known.

The agent claims the system automatically filled it in, in error (i.e. “The computer did it, not me”).

I reported this agent to the Property Redress Scheme, who have pretty much ignored that part of my complaint (I had other issues with the agent).

So my question is - is there anything I can to hold them accountable for this, and prevent them lying/fabricating/engaging in identity fraud in future?
I suspect both property redress schemes and small claims courts will just focus on any monetary compensation I request, rather than holding the agent responsible for the reference fabrication.
Negative online review only other option? Will it make any difference or could they claim defamation if I do that?

2

The redress scheme should do more than that. Speak to them about their process.

3

If its completely true it CANNOT be deformation

4

Turns out the redress scheme can´t / won´t do anything.
They told me that for a faked reference / fraud it would be a police matter, the scheme only deals with financial compensation for services rendered.

I can´t see it being worthwhile contacting the police over this, they very likely won´t do anything.
So, I guess there is no real accountability for agents who decide to produce fake landlord references…good to know.

1 Like
5

this was the right thing to do… preferably before you sign the tenancy agreement. Never ever rely on an agent’s word for anything. Double check everything yourself.