ARLA has thrown its weight behind a Department for Communities and Local Government guide, called How To Rent and launched this week.
The association says that at a time when rental properties are in high demand and with significant media attention on rogue landlords and similar issues, it backs any initiative to inform and educate renters.
The guide outlines the rights and responsibilities of a tenant, and reinforces the need for renters - when choosing a property direct from the landlord or through a letting agent - to ensure that agent or landlord is accredited by ARLA.
ARLA accreditation means your landlord has a responsibility to tell you upfront what fees and costs they will charge you, complaints from both sides will be dealt with fairly and effectively, and you have the peace of mind of knowing your money is protected should you have any dispute with your landlord says an association spokesman.
Ian Fletcher, director of policy at the British Property Federation, says that although the majority of landlords offer a good-quality, professional service for tenants, the complexity of letting can provide fertile ground for those who seek to exploit the unwary.
The BPF describes the guide as an important step in making sure that the rental market operates at a high standard.
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