Words: Ashley Rigg
Published: 18th November 2009
Expelled agent threatens to sue for defamation
The London estate agent
expelled from the UK Property Ombudsman scheme for failing to protect a client’s rental deposit, is threatening to sue for defamation and seek substantial damages.
Global Realty is objecting to a press release sent out by the scheme about its expulsion. It claims the press release is inaccurate and damaging.
The agency owned by husband and wife team Nathan and Ricky Galer says that the Ombudsman’s central accusation, that the firm paid to the landlord the deposit without ensuring it was adequately protected under tenancy deposit protection laws, is “completely untrue”.
Mrs Galer says it was only after receiving confirmation in writing of the landlord’s scheme number that the deposit was transferred to the landlord. She says that a copy of the email sent by the landlord was given to the Ombudsman. Furthermore, the agent say that they had handed the deposit to the landlord after being told there was no dispute over it – the tenants had agreed to forfeit it as they had left the tenancy early, owing rent.
In a letter to the Property Ombudsman, the Galers’ say: “You got it completely wrong.” The agent claims that the release has damaged its good name and reputation and may affect its future business. It is calling on the Ombudsman to take back its claims, and release what it says is the truth.
The Property Ombudsman has acknowledged receipt of the letter but has yet to respond in full.
Full story from
Estate Agent Today.
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