A lettings agency has called in the police after a protest involving anti-agent activists demanding compensation for past tenants.

The Eastern Daily Press reports that protests were held by the Acorn group outside the Norwich office of Abbot Fox; the activists wanted over £5,000 to be paid to former tenants.

Police have been involved following a series of negative online reviews posted about the company following the protests.

The dispute centred on a couple who stayed in their property only a short while before compiling of poor water standards; they left by the agency and local water authority disputed the claims about poor water standards.

The couple, with the backing of Acorn, are now claiming £5,412.66 from the agency. The bill includes £179 for cleaning carpets, £750 for removals and £2,700 for the difference in rent they are now paying.

The agency is not paying and, according to the Eastern Daily Press, is advising the couple to go to the Ombudsman if they remain dissatisfied.

A statement from the agency says: “The last few months haven’t been easy because of these people. We are a small independent company trying to survive with many members of staff working to provide for their families. 

“We care about our customers, our staff and our community. We feel we should make a statement that bullying is not ok.”