Bath & North East Somerset Council has fined Lettings Agency Mendip Property Management Ltd £10,000 for not protecting clients' money.
That's despite the claim that the company's website is “an experienced and well-established letting go and property management institution with over 25 years of experience.” 
Could not perform basics
In the trading standards survey, the Chubara Ledding Agency, based on the Industrial Park (main image), does not implement the basic and essential safeguards necessary to protect tenants and landlord funds. I understand.
The company, which manages facilities ranging from the South Bristol annex to the Country Manor House, challenged the penalty at a recent first-tier court hearing.
Court Judge Brian Kennedy KC dismissed their appeal and stated, “In all circumstances, the defendant (the council) appears to have acted reasonably and within the scope of law. Therefore, the appeal must not be dismissed. It must be.”
The £10,000 penalty represents one-third of the maximum fine possible under current regulations.
This fine serves as a reminder to all traders that they must follow regulations to ensure the safety and security of their clients' money. ”
Councillor Tim Ball, a Cabinet member of Neighborhood Services, stressed the Council's uncompromising attitude on the issue, saying, “The fine is complying with regulations to ensure the safety and security of clients' money. It serves as a reminder for all traders what they have to do.”
He added that the case “sends a clear message that experience alone will not exempt the agency from legal obligations. All property management companies that handle client funds will participate in approved protection schemes and landlords. You need to provide security to both your tenants and your tenants.”
Image: Google StreetView
Read more about tenant deposits.
