What Landlords Need to Know About the Latest Agency Acquisition by Rogers Stewart

The Acquisition and Its Significance for Landlords

Rogers Stewart, a fast-growing franchise partner operating under the Reeds Rains brand, has recently acquired Neil Kaye Estate Agents in Hull. This marks their eighth agency acquisition, further consolidating their presence in the region with a sizeable lettings portfolio now under their management.

For private landlords, whether managing a single property or a larger portfolio, changes in agency management can have practical implications on tenancy administration, compliance, and tenant communication. While such acquisitions often bring operational efficiencies and enhanced service capabilities, they also require landlords to be vigilant about continuity and regulatory adherence.

Why This Matters: Compliance and Communication

The transfer of management responsibilities from Neil Kaye Estate Agents to Rogers Stewart means that all existing tenancy agreements, deposits, and compliance obligations remain in force but under new agency oversight. Landlords must confirm that the acquiring agency has formally taken over all obligations, including:

• Deposit protection in a government-approved scheme
• Up-to-date Gas Safety Certificates and other mandatory property checks
• Tenancy agreements that comply with current legislation

Equally important is ensuring that tenants are informed of the change to maintain clear communication lines and avoid confusion over rent payments, maintenance requests, or legal notices.

Practical Steps for Landlords Post-Acquisition

1. Confirm Continuity of Tenancy Agreements: Contact Rogers Stewart to verify that all existing tenancy agreements are being honoured without changes to key terms unless mutually agreed.

2. Request a Compliance Overview: Ask for confirmation that all compliance documentation (gas, electrical, EPCs) held by Neil Kaye has been transferred and is up to date.

3. Communicate with Tenants: Ensure that tenants have received written notification about the change in management, including updated contact details and payment instructions.

4. Review Service Terms: Check if there are any changes in fees, management procedures, or communication protocols introduced by Rogers Stewart and understand their implications.

5. Plan for Operational Adjustments: If you use any landlord portals or online systems, verify access and functionality under the new agency.

6. Seek Clarification on Deposit Handling: Confirm the status of tenant deposits and the scheme used, as this is a common area of regulatory inspection.

Considerations for Different Landlord Profiles

• Single-Unit Landlords: Prioritise quick confirmation of tenancy continuity and tenant communication to prevent service disruption.
• HMO Landlords: Given the complexity of managing multiple tenants, ensure that Rogers Stewart fully understands your compliance needs, particularly regarding licensing and safety checks.
• Portfolio Landlords: This acquisition may present an opportunity to consolidate management under one agency if you have properties in the region; evaluate the agency’s service offerings accordingly.
• Accidental Landlords: If you rely heavily on your letting agent for guidance, schedule a conversation to understand any new support or changes.

Next Steps: Scheduling Your Review

In the coming weeks, landlords should:

• Arrange a direct discussion with Rogers Stewart’s management team to clarify any questions.
• Conduct a compliance audit of all properties managed under the new agency to identify any gaps.
• Inform tenants promptly if you manage communication, ensuring their experience remains seamless.

How Rentals & Sales Can Assist

Our team specialises in supporting landlords through agency transitions with services including portfolio reviews, compliance audits, and tenant communication strategies. We can help you navigate changes smoothly, ensuring your investment remains protected and your tenants well served.

Compliance Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult with a qualified property professional or legal advisor to address specific circumstances.