News from the Residential Property Investor, the bi-monthly magazine for RLA members other artilces from the May / June 2005 issue RPI news archive

Homes Direct must abide by law - May / June 2005

THE PROPRIETOR of a controversial lettings firm Homes Direct - which was featured on a Watchdog TV programme - has undertaken to deal legally and fairly with consumers following action by the Office of Fair Trading. If Darren Russell breaks his undertaking, he could be made the subject of a court order.

Russell was investigated following complaints by landlords - including members of the Residential Landlords Association - and tenants and by various Trading Standards departments. With offices in Manchester and London, Homes Direct attracted headlines when people claimed to be owed money.

One alleged debtor chained himself in the doorway of the Manchester office. Russell has now agreed that in future he will hand over money held or received on behalf of landlords or tenants in the time agreed or within a reasonable time. He has also undertaken:

• Not to use or enforce unfair contract terms

• Not to publish advertisements that convey the false impression that his business is a ‘company’

• Not to carry on business in Great Britain under a name which includes the word ‘Group’ without the written approval of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry.

other artilces from the May / June 2005 issue

• Home truths
• Landlords relieved by landmark ruling
• Homes Direct must abide by law
• RLA BRIEFING
• RLA unveils scheme to recognise top landlord
• Housing Act ‘badly drafted’
• Highlights of a busy year
• Tax