Letting agents in Haringey have been hit with over £100,000 in fines for failing to display clear fees and breaching Client Money Protection rules.
Client Money Protection safeguards rent and deposits, ensuring landlords and tenants do not lose their money if an agent goes bust or commits fraud.
Some 16 agents across the borough have been issued penalty notices, with half of them being hit with multiple fines.
These agents operate in various neighbourhoods including Harringay, West Green, Tottenham Hale, Noel Park, Alexandra Palace, Tottenham Central, South Tottenham, and Hornsey.
Cllr Sarah Williams, cabinet member for housing and planning and deputy leader of the council, said: “With over 100 letting agents in the borough, we must ensure they are meeting their legal obligations.
“This gives tenants and landlords confidence that their money is secure and that they have access to dispute the issue if needed.
“We are committed to providing housing that is safe, secure and compliant. Agents who fail to comply and put residents at risk, will face the consequences.”
Most of the fines have already been settled, while the remaining cases are being managed through agreed payment plans.
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, agents cannot charge for unauthorised payments, but the council suggested that tenants tend to make few complains out of fear of losing their homes.
The council urged tenants and landlords to report any concerns.