Can an Estate Agent Be Your Landlord in the UK?

 
06/06/2025
If you're searching for a rental property—especially in a student-friendly city like Liverpool—you’ve probably dealt with letting agents. But sometimes, you’ll come across a setup where the estate agent is also the landlord. So, is that legal? And what does it mean for you as a tenant? 
Let’s break it down.


Estate Agent vs. Landlord – What's the Difference?

In most rental situations, the landlord is the legal owner of the property, while the estate or letting agent acts on their behalf—handling tenant inquiries, contracts, maintenance, and property management.

However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, a letting agent may own the property directly or be part of a company that owns and rents out homes. In this case, the agent becomes the landlord, too.

At Point Properties, for example, we manage properties for private landlords across Liverpool—but also offer rentals from our own property portfolio.

 

Can an Estate Agent Legally Be a Landlord in the UK?

Yes, they absolutely can.

There’s no legal barrier preventing a letting agent from owning and renting out property. In fact, it can be beneficial for both sides:


  • The agent has full control over property standards and tenant care

  • Tenants deal directly with the same team for everything from viewings to maintenance

  • The process is often more streamlined compared to working with a third-party landlord

What matters most is that the property—and its management—meets all legal and safety obligations, just like any other rental.

 

What This Means for Tenants

If you’re renting from a letting agent who’s also the landlord, you may find the process more efficient overall.

Benefits include:


  • Quicker maintenance responses – no waiting for landlord approval

  • More transparent communication – everything is handled in-house

  • Reliable service – agents like Point Properties are professionally regulated and accountable

Of course, the same rental laws still apply—so you’re protected whether the landlord is an individual or a professional agency.

 

Your Rights as a Tenant – No Matter Who Owns the Property

UK rental legislation doesn’t change based on who the landlord is. Whether you’re renting from a private owner or a letting agent directly, your tenant rights remain the same.

Here’s what you should expect:


  • Deposit protection in a government-approved scheme

  • Gas and electrical safety certificates

  • Up-to-date EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)

  • Legally binding tenancy agreement

  • Fair notice periods and eviction processes

Letting agents like Point Properties are also bound by regulatory codes of practice, giving tenants an added layer of accountability.

For more, visit the official UK tenant rights guide.

 

Letting Agents in Liverpool: What Sets Point Properties Apart

At Point Properties, we do more than manage rentals—we offer well-maintained, fully compliant homes across Liverpool, whether they’re owned by us or private landlords.

We serve a wide range of tenants, including:


  • Students attending Liverpool’s major universities

  • Young professionals looking for city-centre or suburban living

  • Families seeking long-term, reliable homes

What sets us apart?


  • Decades of local property expertise

  • A large portfolio of professionally managed rentals

  • Responsive, friendly, in-house maintenance

  • Transparent processes, no hidden fees

Whether you're looking for a student house in Kensington or a two-bed apartment in the Baltic Triangle, we've got something for every lifestyle and budget.

 

👉Browse available properties now and find your next home in Liverpool.

 

 

So, can an estate agent be your landlord in the UK? Absolutely—and it often means better property standards and smoother service. The key is choosing a reputable, experienced agency that understands both the local market and your rights as a tenant.


At Point Properties, we take pride in offering exactly that. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a family planning your next move, our team is here to help.

Start your rental journey with confidence—browse our listings today.


 
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