[NickiUK]

Hi everybody,
I know we are a lot to complain about dodgy agencies, even though they are not all bad. I have personally been ripped off by one of these pay upfront agencies and would like those who read to share their stories in this topic. Maybe we can prevent future flathunters to pay for their "services", and also share some advice. I've seen there are several topics more or less related to this one, but I would really be interested in knowing some other stories, as I am considering legal action against one of them and would like to have your testimonies: if you have already complained about a pay upfront agency, if you were ripped of as well, or any other story...
Again, this topic is not against honest agencies and their employees. It's my experience - which seems not to be the only one - of a really bad company which takes advantage of people's despair to rob their money and later deny charges against them.

[NickiUK]

Nobody?
Well, if no one has a story to share, that is good for you since that means you did not experience such a bad thing.
Otherwise, don't be shy! I am sure I am not the only one this happened to. I'd just like your help because, as I said, I am considering legal action and I'd be very interested to know if any of you has already been to court and if the "good ones" or the "bad ones" won! It's a difficult decision to make because there is a risk to lose even more money, but at the same time I think that if nobody complains, these agencies will continue to act without being punished and rip off people.
Even if you didn't take legal action, just write a few lines on your experience. You might save somebody from being ripped off, and let's face it, it feels good to share your burden. Most of these agencies pretend they are "reputable"? Let's prove they are wrong.

[Pennant The Tenant]

best advice would be not to pay upfront.