They have breached ‘Client Money Protection’ rules and failed to display clear fees under the 2015 Consumer Rights Act, the authority points out.
The property agents have been issued penalty notices, with half receiving more than one fine.
“Agents who put renters at risk will face the consequences,” deputy council leader Sarah Williams warned.
“We must ensure the 100 letting agents operating in Haringey are meeting their legal obligations. This gives tenants and landlords confidence that their money is secure and that they have access to dispute the issue if needed.”
The agents operate mainly in the eight neighbourhoods of Hornsey, Harringay, West Green, Tottenham, Tottenham Hale, South Tottenham, Noel Park and Alexandra Palace.
Client Money Protection safeguards rent and deposits, to make sure both tenants and landlords don’t lose their money if an agent goes bust or commits fraud. The aim is building trust and accountability in the private housing sector.
Agents cannot charge unauthorised payments under the 2019 Tenant Fees Act.
But few complaints are made — possibly because tenants fear losing their homes, the council believes.
Now tenants and landlords are being urged to report any concerns, with transparency and compliance to “help keep the housing market fair for everyone”.
