Estate agent of Rachel Reeves issues apology for failure to apply for rental licence
Rachel Reeves received an apology from her estate agent for neglecting to apply for a rental licence on her behalf, despite initially offering to do so. The firm expressed regret over the situation in a statement, aiming to resolve the dispute that prompted calls from the Tories for the Chancellor’s dismissal. Downing Street affirmed their full support for Ms. Reeves, who will continue preparations for the upcoming Budget.
The apology came after Ms. Reeves had to say sorry to Keir Starmer and his ethics adviser for the oversight regarding her family property in Dulwich, South London. Following her move to No11 Downing Street after Labour’s election victory last year, she and her husband decided to rent out their South London residence. However, it was discovered on Wednesday that the property lacked the required “selective licence” from the local Southwark council, leading to criticisms from the Conservative party.
Ms. Reeves disclosed emails on Thursday between her husband and the agency, indicating that Harvey & Wheeler had agreed to handle the licence application. Despite this, she acknowledged full responsibility for the error. The estate agent owner, Giles Martin, clarified that while they typically advise clients to secure licences themselves, a former property manager had offered to apply on behalf of Ms. Reeves but resigned just before the tenancy began.
Martin explained that although the application was not submitted as intended, all necessary certificates were in place at the tenancy’s commencement, with assurance that the licence would have been granted if applied for. He emphasized their regret for the confusion caused to their clients, who believed the licence process was underway.
Revealed government emails showed discussions between Ms. Reeves’s husband and the agency regarding the steps to rent out the property and the associated costs. The correspondence indicated the agency’s commitment to managing the selective licence once the new tenant moved in.
In a letter to the Prime Minister, Ms. Reeves acknowledged the oversight and took responsibility for not promptly addressing the issue. Southwark council indicated that no punitive action would be taken against Ms. Reeves, emphasizing that fines are typically reserved for landlords who disregard warnings about licensing requirements.
Upon realizing the error, Ms. Reeves promptly applied for the necessary licence. Southwark council highlighted the importance of landlords obtaining selective licences to ensure compliance with housing standards and protect tenants. Enforcement measures are only pursued when landlords fail to comply within the specified timeframe.