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We rented a property through Choices in 2019 and it was a terrible experience. We were told that the property would be professionally cleaned (including removal of mould), and all non-working fixtures would be repaired, before we moved in.
On move in day, we arrived to the flat and it was in the same state we originally saw it, nothing had been cleaned and the fixtures were not working. There were nail clippings on the sofa (it came furnished), food under the cushions, food on the walls and floor, and the bathroom was grimy and clearly not even wiped down.
I called and spoke with the branch manager who tried to be a real smart aleck about the situation, first telling me the place had been professionally cleaned and then telling me his agent never agreed that it would be professionally cleaned. He was condescending and rude.
Unfortunately for him, and luckily for us, it wasn’t our first time working with a letting agency. Before we signed the rental contract, we wrote down everything wrong with the property and what we needed done before we would move in. The agent (who I recall was somewhat new) agreed to this and signed our written document.
Upon explaining this to the branch manager, he at first did not believe me. He requested I send him a picture of the signed note, which I did, and he quickly changed his tune. Next thing he arrived at the flat, dressed in a suit and tie, and went to work cleaning our flat. He didn’t leave until we were satisfied with the job he had done. The only thing that he did not fix that day were the fixtures, which took many more weeks to get sorted.
Safe to say, if we hadn’t gotten that note signed, the branch manager would have continued talking out of his backside to avoid any responsibility. Luckily we had a break lease at 6 months, and we took it.
Moral of the story, avoid this place at all costs, or at least make sure you have proof of any discussions to back yourself up.... Read more
23rd Nov 2023 (18 weeks ago)