Luton Liberal Democrats are concerned the Council may be still paying rent to agencies which potentially could fail to pass on payments to landlords.

Following the apparent disappearance of letting agents YourPad Liberal Democrat Councillors expressed concern this week that Luton Council may be still paying rent to agencies which potentially could fail to pass on payments to landlords – leaving Council tenants who have been placed in their properties vulnerable.

Although Luton Borough Council has written to landlords suggesting they pick a new agency to manage their property, Liberal Democrat Housing spokesman Councillor Alan Skepelhorn is concerned the Council may still be paying rent to agents who are not covered by a reliable guarantee scheme.

“Tenants were left fearful of their position and landlords were out of pocket and in some cases behind on their mortgages leaving the tenants vulnerable to eviction,” says Councillor Alan Skepelhorn.

“We have to be sure this can never happen again.”

“I have asked the Council what steps they have taken to ensure all the lettings agencies they now use are covered by a guarantee scheme backed by a bank, insurance company or reliable trade association.”