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		<title>AllAgents - Reviews of  countrywide</title> 
        <link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/rss/Countrywide Residential Lettings</link> 
        <description></description><item>
		<title><![CDATA[17/5/2012 - minotaur2012 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I can only agree wholeheartedly with others comments.
You prepare to ring with a problem, you have the paperwork available to hand, and you ring and are put through to a charming lady who promises to look at the problem and will “ring you back…” 
You wait, pacing the floor, is this a good week to give up smoking..?
Finally, unable to wait any more you ring back. Again, it seems all is under control, but there is a problem, “accounts are busy/we can’t find the letter/ the person dealing with it has the day off…etc,etc”
You know its coming, the blood pressure is rising accompanied by the adrenalin, and then “can----I --------ring-------you ------back—?
It’s too much, you ran screaming into the night, neighbours lock their doors while this manic demon runs screaming through the night.
Finally you return exhausted, and have a fitful nights sleep.
But tomorrow is a new day, you try again, maybe there will be a breakthrough.?
But unfortunately there is still a problem, but “Can I ring you back..?”
So it goes on and finally, exhausted, broken, a shell of your former self you succumb and your gravestone reads “They told me they’d call me back..”
I don’t know what the answer is, what can anyone do, there is no answer to “can I ring you back”. You can only hope that Divine Providence will get you away to a different agent and you can get your life back.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/5/2012 - Disgusted ex-tenant rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[There was not one particular member of staff that we found to be incompetent. Just the entire company as a whole were completely useless when it came to dealing with problems with the property and corresponding with any staff member proved to be near impossible. They were either very rude or disinterested in the problems we had to report and also on several occasions we found it difficult to even get a hold of any agent at all! In the property we rented from countrywide there was a severe damp and mould problem. We spent 3 months complaining about it before countrywide sent out anyone to take a look at it at which point we were told that she had been informed about the problem by a previous tenant. At this point she told us they would send someone out to fix it but after 2 weeks of no communication, i finally had to contact countrywide to ask when it was getting fixed? This whole thing  could have been quickly and easily fixed but instead countrywide took the entire 6 months period in which we had taken the lease for, to attempt to remedy the situation. Even at that the problem still exists. All they did was paint over the damp marks and the mould which was growing throughout the property. So as a result of their negligence, my partner and I chose to end our tenancy at the end of the six months. Furthermore, it has now been 2 whole weeks since we moved into our new home (with a different agency) and we still have to hear about whether or not we will be receiving our deposit money back as there has been absolutely no communication from countrywide since handing in our keys. the property now has a new tenant and i know for a fact they will not know about the pre-existing problems as we were not advised on it when we viewed it.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/5/2012 - NUTE rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I have never had the misfortune to deal with such dreadful service. We are renting our property out and paying them a riduculous amount of money for doing nothing. They NEVER reply to emails, they are always unavalailable when you call and when you do get to speak to the right person they are rude and dismissive. Awful, awful, awful.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/5/2012 - Fanscensu rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[at the end of January 2012, Entwistle Green showed me a property in Blackburn where I am still (unfortunately) living. The flat to rent looked apparently fine, so I signed a 6-month tenancy contract. After a week of stay in the flat, I found the house flooded as there was a water leak in the ceiling of the bathroom never properly fixed.

The water leak occurred the first time at the beginning of January and I moved in the property the 30th of the same month.

I called the Countrywide Property Management based in Manchester to report the issue and they left me in that house without repairing the leak. Any time I was calling some agent in charge for the Maintenance, they would say to wait for the caretaker to come and sort the problem.

I had to call the Blackburn City Council Housing Department to have something partially done as they and the neighbour owning the property below insisted for the problem to get sorted (the water was dripping from the ceiling of my bathroom and got through the floor, hence reaching the ceiling of the flat below mine).

After fixing the pipes draining water from the ceiling of the bathroom, I remained with the carpets soaked in water and with stains of mould for 2 months. The agents from Countrywide in Manchester (La Haçienda is the name of the building where they work) said they would remove the stinky and smelly carpets but they never did so.

I filed an official complaint against Entwistle Green for not informing me about the maintenance issues when required and for the lack of service showed by Countrywide toward the same matter.

The response to my complaint was due by the Countrywide by the 19th of April but they have never given an official answer, either disclosed the Internal Complaint Procedure of the Company as they are required to.

I tried to call the Management Dep several times to have a written response but the Manager in Charge (Ms Nugent) is always unattainable. Through some emails sent by the agent who was personally in charge of taking care of my flat stated that they stopped dealing with the property from the same date he called the contractors to come and dry the carpets (not remove them as they had previously said), but they still ask for the money of the rent (how could the agent in charge Mr Turner manage to call the contractors if the Countrywide stopped dealing with my flat since the same date???).

I asked for some clear proof about this, as it all sound impossible (if they do not deal with the property any longer, how can they ask for the money of the rent?), but nobody in the Manchester office has been able to give me a concrete and reliable answer.

I stopped paying the rent awaiting for some clear answer but they still denying it. By contract if a tenant wants to conclude the tenancy prior to its official end, either the landlord (which I have never seen, and never given his phone number until a few days ago) or the letting agency may decide to charge you for the remaining month until the natural end of the tenancy.

On the other side, another term states that if a house is inhabitable, the tenant may stop the payment of the rent and then terminate the tenancy immediately by giving a written notice.

Which term prevails? Now they partially fixed the problem but the carpets are still smelly and in need of a replacement. I want to go away from this property asap without any consequence! I tried to speak with Fairtrade, Citizens Advice Bureau and Shelter (the latter, if I want to arrange some appointment I have to wait for a month at least) but with no concrete result. I wanted to speak with some private lawyer but they discouraged me from having a chargeable legal advice, because expensive for me for the type of problem, so they overtly dropped my request....

I need help/advice. We should all unite against these dodgy companies in order to stop them from working in these conditions.

Countrywide and Enwistle Green illegally abuse of our money without being warned/punished as they should.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[27/4/2012 - paidup rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[yet another phone call from this bunch of useless twits,rented from mike jolly's for 11 years and never a problem with them receiving my rent. I keep having to send proof that I have paid.The first time I didn't even know that I wasn't renting from Jollys still and when you'e gone to the trouble of sending proof do they phone and apologise- do they heck !!
telephone manner is disgusting, after dealing with Jollys for all this time and always getting first class service it makes it all the more apparent that this lot have no idea what they are doing.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[26/4/2012 - ghworth87 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I used Entwistle Green estate agents and had no problems, until they started using countrywide lettings to process their payments.
They claim that my rent is in arrears by 200, which happened at the same point they took over the rent payments.
After showing our estate agents our bank statements and them checking their receipts, they still claim I owe them 200, repeatedly ringing my phone and sending e-mails. They never reply to messages and they have done nothing to help me resole the issue, making it difficult for me to move as I now have a bad reference from them, even though I paid rent on time, every month.

My problem is with them, not my estate agents, as they cannot deal on country wide's behalf. If you can avoid using them I would encourage it, although they seem to be creeping into more estate agents recently.

VERY bad customer service and ridiculous fee's, steer clear.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[25/4/2012 - Countrywide shocking rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Complete rip off merchants and fraudsters. Non-existent customer service.
Charged me a fee to renew a tenancy agreement, cashed the cheque and did nothing to provide the service apart from trying to charge my tenant a fee too. Eventually sorted the contract out myself but impossible to get a refund from Countrywide. They have told me twice it's in the post for the last month!
Complete jokers. DO NOT USE THEM.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[23/4/2012 - BeWarned! rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[STAY AWAY from COUNTRYWIDE PLC and FULFORDS.  Ripped off, misinformed, landed with scum as tenants who are encouraged to work the benefits system by Fulfords. Our property has been destroyed, Fulfords have employed cowboys (probably relatives) for erroneous repairs, tenants smoking and doing drugs, Countrywide 'insurance' taking 6 months to organize eviction - and ongoing!  Noone knows what the hell is going on.  We are thousands out of pocket and our property may need thousands in repairs.  Everything that could go wrong has done and this appalling 'management' agency could not care less.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[17/4/2012 - Disgruntled rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Absolutely appalling from start to finish.  Took our 1250 deposit and have failed to ensure a safe return to us.  Their excuse is that they then passed it on to the landlord, but we paid the money to them in good faith and they washed their hands of us.  Woman gave the deposit to treated us like we were dirt on her shoe.  Steamrollered us into paying for the house two weeks before we needed to.  Dreadful, dreadful swet up in Llandudno North Wales - can't find on branch list.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/3/2012 - trillian12 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[We have had nothing but issues with Countrywide in York, who now seem to have changed names to Bridgfords but are still part of Countrywide. When we moved in we paid nearly 500 in fees, on top of our deposit and first months rent. We got to the office to make the payment and they told us they had accidentally added up the fees wrong and we actually owed them another 120, we were first time tenants, both myself and partner young and wet behind the ears. Throughout the entire initial process the staff were nothing but accommodating and helpful every step of the way. All this soon changed when they had got our money, and they completely switched off. it took over two weeks to replace a broken washing machine and we have had no heating because even though I have advised that the storage heater in the bedroom does not work at leasat three times, nothing has ever been done to rectify this.

In December just gone we had to pay another 125 to rearrange our tenancy agreement because apparently they can't do a rolling contract, we paid this in good faith and were served with a section 21 with two months notice, because the land lady wanted to sell the property even though we were supposed to be there for at least six months.

I cannot begin to explain how let down I feel by this company and how much I feel like we have been taken for a ride, it is disgusting that they are able to get away with what they do, and it has caused no end of stress and ill feeling. 

I would urge anyone that is thinking of going with this company to reassess their options and find somewhere else or someone else to go with.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/3/2012 - Ms Daniels rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 4 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[MANN Countrywide Lettings found me a property within 48hrs of me being registered as an applicant. They processed my needs quickly and provided fantastic customer service. I will recommend them to anyone looking to rent a property in the near future.<br />This person would use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[20/3/2012 - Rosie rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Absolutely the worst company I have ever had the misfortune to deal with, I have been both a landlord and tenant in the past (thankfully with other companies); as a tenant using this company I am in awe of the number of ways they seek to rip off both landlord and tenant, their customer service is terrible and they have never inspected the property on behalf of the landlord, I don't think that they do anything at all past marketing the property.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/3/2012 - Haggard One rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I agreed to rent a property from Countrywide at the advertised rate. 

However after I had agreed to the move Countrywide revealed they were demanding the better part of a months rent for a range of additional charges. These charges were not notified to me before I had committed to the let and appear to be nothing more than a bribe for allowing a tenant to take the property.

Two weeks ago I received the six monthly renewal notice. It seems that Countrywide are demanding another bribe for handling the renewal.

I am not sure if I should cut my losses and move out . On the other hand this bunch of bandits will surely deduct termination fees.  

I have honoured my commitment to this company from the start and have not argued about  price. All I want is want an honest relationship  with an organisation I can trust. This outfit are not such a company. Please for your own sake avoid this outfit.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[27/2/2012 - nothappy :-( rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I currently in a property let by countrywide or as its now called bridgfords. i moved into the property in 2009 we were living in the property for less than a fortnight when thick black mold started growing in the living room and both the bedrooms. i got straight on the phone to be told  that i have to leave all my windows open during the day in NOVEMBER i had also notice great big holes in one of the cupboards in the bedroom these holes were so big i could see cars driving up the road through them these were supposedly vents similar to the ones you would have seen in a larder in the 50s. As times gone on the mold has become so bad im having to move out it destroyed my sofa, clothes, furniture  and childrens toys in two and a half years countrywide have sent out one specialist to view it and given me a condenser. It has cost me a fortune in redecoration and cleaning ive had to buy new curtains, mattresses, carpets and bedding my landlady was so infuriated that id decorated (to try get rid of the mold) she came to view the property to check what damaged id done to it!!! fully aware of the mold situation... they told me that before id moved in there had been no problems with mold and when asked why there was huge holes in the wall told me slight specks had started appearing (contradiction). I have since found out from neighbours that countrywide where fully aware that the property has a serious mold problem as the last tenants moved because of the problem and they still let it to me.. They have also moved my bond from the tenancy deposit scheme i have the documents for and keep making excuses as to sending me my new documents so i have no idea where my 750 bond is being held.. i have found a new mold free property with a different agent and countrywide are asking for a 25 fee for providing me with a reference i truly can not wait to leave this house and agency its been a nightmare!!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[15/2/2012 - Angry of Sheffield rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[When we first let out our property, it was with Mike Jollys in Sheffield, then at some point towards the end of 2011, Countrywide bought the business.

The staff at Mike Jollys were first class and we had a fantastic working relationship with them. We got paid on time, we knew everything that was happening which was great because we don't live in the UK.

Since the country bumpkins have taken over it's been nothing but a total nightmare. We are having to fight them every step of the way, they've spent something in the region of 1000 of our money without telling us what it's been spent on. When we did eventually get something from them, we shouldn't have paid for most of the charged items. There were things we could have claimed for on our insurance but the bumpkins couldn't be bothered to ask.

They have not respond to our questions in a very timely manner - that's when they can be bothered to reply at all! They're good at passing the buck - nobody owns up to anything!

All in all, these idiots should be avoided at all costs! We shall be dropping them asap.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[7/2/2012 - dillon rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[They are absolutely awful- we have had two instances of tenants not paying rent, having to take them to court- the worst thing is the agency just does not reply to emails or phone calls... we are compleetly at their mercy as we're in Australia.... DO NOT USE THEM if you are a landlord...<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[1/2/2012 - Not Very Happy! .com! rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[:-( Never ever go with this company!!! I have had tiles coming off behind my sink taps in my bathroom for near 2 years!! (Since I moved in) With a little 2 year old.... not a goood idea!!! Now trying to say I owe them money for my rent??? No idea! And have contacted my guarantor saying that I owe last months rent...... that has been payed????!!! 
Never ever again will I use Courtwide lettings after this experience!!! 
I have already had one flat from hell with them but thought they may have sorted themselfs out!! Obviously not!
Never ever again!! Ever again!.....
Be very aware!!!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[31/1/2012 - dantw rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[countrywide what can i say.
since november they have threatened to change my locks, have phoned me demanding money, sent numerous letters and are now taking me court for unpaid rent.
the best part is they cant spell my name, and even better I DONT HAVE a tenancy agreement with them, and my landlord has no idea either.

good business just charge random people rent for a house that you have nothing to do with.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[24/1/2012 - angrytenant rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Beyond Disappointing...

1.  Countrywide has some of the highest agent admin fees around to get into a rental property.  Expect to spend serious    .

2. There is no month to month rolling allowed at the end of our 12 month contract.  This has been a nightmare for us as we are trying to buy a house while avoiding another costly contract.

3.  Expect your annual lease renewal fees to double (ours went from   80 to 120 in 1 year).  This is what they charge to print out and send last year's lease with a new date on it.  Can you please justify this cost?

4.  Our upstairs tap wasn't fixed for 6 months (issue with maintenance dept).  

5.  We received threatening letters about owing money (due to their accounting error).  We spent 20 in phone calls and had to escalate the issue to head office to clear this up.  That was because after 2 months of trying to get them to fix the error at our local branch, we were told quite bluntly that the amount wasn't worth their time researching to clear our account.  After 4 months of stress we would appreciate an apology from Countrywide.

6.   We are regularly treated with significant disrespect, even though we always pay full rent out of our bank account on time.

7.  Our entire downstairs floor was covered in plaster when we moved in.  I spent 2 weeks scrubbing floors.  Our Dyson died on the upstairs carpet it was so dirty.  It was really good that the windows were replaced (hence the plaster) but the property was not suitable for moving in.  After waiting over a 10 days to see if they were planning to remove the mess outside, we had to call the council to collect a large amount of bin bags and loads of old carpet that we found on the path and stuffed in the back shed.   (Just to add, the upstairs sink  was hanging off the wall like a rotten tooth, and the entire exterior wall needs damp proofing ASAP.)  An agency this size should keep on top of quality &amp; cleanliness standards.  Countrywide needs to prove why they deserve to charge high fees.  Their quarterly inspections are slightly insulting in this respect and feel more like an invasion of quiet enjoyment.

Overall our experience with Countrywide has been beyond disappointing.  One comes to the conclusion after reading all the complaints against them that staff training at Countrywide breeds a culture of blatant mistreatment of both tenants and landlords.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[19/1/2012 - Frank Smith rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Please do not use this agency or Frank Innes who acts as the letting agent, just read other reviews and you will see why.
I have a list so long of complaints ,and  they have ignored my emails. If anyone has an email or telephone number e of the Company Director or General manager I would be most grateful as these incompetent, unprofessional managers do not care, and there does not seem to be a complaint procedure to report situations to so this will carry on being a bad firm.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/1/2012 - Adriana rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[i did rent a flat for 2 years in albany washintong for 2 years, i moved out on 24th november 2011, they did say the flat need repairs, my deposis was for  500  they did say will contact me to give the rest of deposit back, today is 12th jaunuary 2012 they didint contact me when i phoned they put me on waitting for a such a long time, they just robbed me , and i was very good with my payments, i feel that they treat me really just because i am a foreigner they think can abuse, i dont recomend them horrible people<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/12/2011 - ooshelley rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY: COUNTRYWIDE, AUSTIN &amp; WYATT &amp; MANN &amp; CO are the same company.
My husband &amp; I rented our flat out (with Kivells very a good agency!) &amp; rented a house through countrywide when we were expecting our first child. Their incompetence is outstanding how they get away with it I do not know. I had water dripping down from the loft I rang them &amp; 3 days later some1 came &amp; took photos. They then sent a plumber about another week later after several heated phone calls who said he fixed the leak we went away for 4 days &amp; when we came home the upstairs &amp; downstairs ceilings had fallen down and the place was water logged. It took me 2 days to get an emergency plumber to come out &amp; fix the leak as you can imagine the damage was extensive. I waited over 6 weeks for the ceiling to be repaired 8 weeks with no carpet &amp; nails sticking out of the floor and 6 weeks without a working shower. The bathroom ceiling and walls have still not been repaired. I have reported the house to the environmental health &amp; am now moving out. We have a break clause in our contract permitting us to give 2 months notice I rang up last month to tell them I was leaving &amp; was told to ring back in a month as we only need to give 1 months notice. Now I have rung back to give my notice &amp; been told I will be held liable for 2 months notice. You have to ring different companies in totally different parts of the country to do anything &amp; it seems none of the communicate with each other. So 1 person has said yes we can leave with 1 months notice another has said no and the admin dept didn't even know we were leaving. I have had people turning up to view the property and 9am with no warning then even after I asked to be told 24hrs in advance about viewings (as is my right) I had another lot turn up at 1.30pm I am so frustrated I have been in tears on the phone because people are so bloody rude. DO NOT RENT FROM THESE PEOPLE. I am a landlord &amp; would never put my tenants through what we have been through. My agents get people to my tenants within 24 hrs for any problem.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[6/12/2011 - Darren rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[As a tenant, and a customer the service I received was the worst I have ever had from any company.  Basic repairs were not carried out for months, such that we could not even lock the doors or flush one of the toilets; the direct debit instruction was sent twice and came out of my bank account twice, yet I received no apology and was told to sort it out with the bank; and in breach of contract they changed the utility company we used and again no apology was given, with the branch simply blaming Head Office. The final inventory was completely different to the discussions had with the inventory clerk, whilst the I had at least two pages of amendments to the original inventory. It was an absolute nightmare and I would recommend any prospective tenant thinks three times before using them as they are the landlord's friend!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[1/12/2011 - Laura rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[This agency is abysmal. My friend and I rent a property through one of their agents, King and Chasemore, based in Crawley, West Sussex.  They are unwilling to help, never return our phone calls and generally treat us with disdain whenever we do contact them, whether the matter is regarding an issue with the property or if we simply require information from them. They are the most discourteous people I have ever come across, and their customer service skills are practically non-existent. 
We have had several issues with the property, the main one being that for four months during 2009 we had hardly any hot water. After contacting the agency time and time again, it took to us having to physically go into the King and Chasemore branch in Crawley town centre to speak to someone face to face about the issues. The reception we received from the Branch Manager was absolutely deplorable. I was disgusted by the way we were spoken to, and the Property Maintenance Manager was equally as reprehensible. I was so offended by the way that we had been treated I emailed them the next day expressing my disappointment. What followed shocked me even more. The Branch Manager phoned me later that day after reading my email, and instead of apologising for her actions, took to getting into another disagreement about the way I felt. The conversation lasted for twenty minutes with the Manager defending her actions. She never once apologised. I made her aware that I would not recommend anyone to use this agency, and I would absolutely ensure that I recommended people to stay away from them. 
At the moment our washing machine has now broken for the third time this year. Each time we have contacted them to report this particular fault, they have treated us like incompetent children, telling us in the most patronising tone they can muster how to operate the simple machine. Last time it broke we were without a washing machine for well over a week, and they only deemed it necessary to send someone out to fix it when I contacted them and informed them if they failed to fix it, they could deduct the cost of laundering our clothes professionally from our rent for that month. 
This agency is incompetent, unskilled and seriously lacking in compassion and customer service skills. Stay away!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[27/11/2011 - Belinda rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 5 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The agency was phenomenal.  They took great care to ensure that my property was managed properly, they understood that it was my house but their attitude was &quot;if it were my house, how would I feel ...&quot;  it was a very personal service that I received.  I was quickly informed of any issues, and excellent advice was given as to the best course of action.  Sam - who I dealt with - was extremely fair and made sure that whilst i undertook my own responsibilities, I wasn't taken for a ride in any way.  Brilliant connections with workmen to ensure speedy resolution of any problems with the house, meant I knew it was always well looked after by the agency (if not always by the tenant).  The attitude it was about what was the right thing - ensuring everyone was fair and proper to the agreements.  I would recommend Countrywide - first class service, excellent communication, excellent property management and a very individual and personal service.<br />This person would use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[26/11/2011 - Judith rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I had some problems as the tenant did not maintain the garden and Countrywide did not ensure that this requirement was met. My main complaint is that at the end of the tenancy Countrywide changed the gas &amp; electricity supplier from Scottish Power to EON without any reference to me. When they did this they gave the address for accounts as their own office, consequently the first I knew of the change was a letter from a debt collection agency to the house because of unpaid bills. Since the house was unoccupied this action was taken on the basis of estimated bills when no utilities had actually been used. As I live in South Africa this has caused me considerable time and expense to sort things out. Their office in Stockton told me &quot;Oh, we do this as standard now and have our own team with EON&quot;  Other landlords beware as they obviously get a kick-back from all transfers!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[24/11/2011 - Angry tenant rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The worst agency ever! They are rude, unprofessional and just plain useless! They called me numerous times for apparently owing money to them, only to find out that it was a mistake from their behalf so effectively I was doing their inadequate job. They are useless in so many ways. I will really encourage people not to let any property from them and this are not words coming from my mouth but also from one of my colleagues who happened to rent a house with them. 
Once my hot water broke and I had to go to the agency twice to get fixed. 
Once I finish my tenancy, I will go to the Students Union and hopefully publish in the newspaper about how appalling their services are.  
Two words: Terrible Service.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[22/11/2011 - TickedOffLandlord rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I used this agent for about 5 years, in various guises (Bridgfords, Countrywide), etc. There are not enough adjectives to describe what a terribly inadequate, unprofessional service they provided. The tenant was pretty bad, whch really exposed the limitations of the agents. Poor communication, misrepresentation of events, everyone blaming someone else, pathetically superficial house inspections. I ended up spending hundreds of hours arranging for repairs, etc., myself. I had the full management option, but when I asked the agent (several times) to call the Council to report low water pressure causing the boiler to malfunction, their response was &quot;we are only supposed to deal with minor repairs, not major house modifications&quot; (by this point, a new boiler was needed, and I had arranged for the Coucnil to install a line to a different water supply, all provided by the Council at no cost). So I managed to get done from hundreds of miles away what they didn't get done from about a half-mile away (all they needed to do was call the council!) I am now with a different agents who are already like polar opposites - they actually respond to emails!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[12/11/2011 - AngryIsAnUnderestimate! rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[We dealt with Beresford Adams who are under the CWL umbrella. Me and my partner thought it was amazing at first, they were very polite and helped us look at the two bedroom flat we were interested in. The mistake we made was renting the property. We have just moved out of the property and it is such a huge relief. We had no hot water for the three years we lived there and where always fobbed off by BA, CWL and the landlords each saying that it wasn't their problem it was someone else's. The only hot water we had in the property was the electric shower which broke after 6 months of living there, it took 6 months to fix it as they wanted me &quot;to wait until it got worse&quot;. Unbelievable! There was something wrong with the electrics as well and the bulbs were always blowing and sometimes they would ping out of the lights and wizz across the room! Again when we complained it was nobodies fault and nothing was done. The intercom downstairs broke and it took them 3 weeks to fix and I never knew if anyone was ringing the doorbell. The tap was leaking, three months until it was fixed. Every letter they sent us cost 25pounds plus VAT which made it between 30-40pounds. We paid ridiculous amounts of money to renew our contracts and the last straw was when they wanted 120pounds to renew our contract this year. Moving out was another horrendous ordeal. 45pounds+VAT for references which we were promised within 48hs....guess how long we had to wait? 3 weeks! We were so lucky our new landlords were understanding else we would have missed out on our new house. We cleaning the house out and it was spotless when we left apart from some wine stains on the carpet in some of the rooms, we knew they would take money of us for that. However when we got our deposit information back we were charged 180pounds cleaning charges, 220 pounds &quot;clearance&quot; and 60pounds &quot;administrative charge for invoking dilaps process&quot;. We left a sponge in the property when we left, I doubt very much that it took them 220pounds to remove it! The dilaps process...they charged us to inspect the property when we left! UNBELIEVABLE!!! Please please please don't rent with anyone under their umbrella. You will get charged for everything and you will not get any of your deposit back. It was the worst thing we ever did and we have lost out on so much money because of them.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[2/11/2011 - Angry rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[To start with the letting agent were great; friendly, co-operative - they would do anything to make sure that I rented the property. The mistake I made was paying them money. As soon as I had signed up and paid my deposit and 1st months rent, they just did not want ot know!!! I've been in the property just over 3 months and have no hot running water to the kitchen sink, the family bathroom is just a toilet as the shower has never worked, there is an elertical fault so we have no light also in the family bathroom, the ensuite shower (shared by a family of four with grown up children, very inconvenient) constantly causes the main consumer unit to pop and everything in the house goes off - we cant even set any clocks on any appliances. And the Oven doesn't work, it spoils food - burnt on the outside and raw on the inside!

What are the letting agent doing? Lying, passing the buck, Blaming me! Absolutely anything but fixing these issue. I am extremely stressed, annoyed and frustrated. It cost me a lot of money to move here and they just dont care, the only thing they care about is getting paid. DO NOT USE THESE PEOPLE!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[11/10/2011 - ANGRY Danni rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[absolutely crap!!
rude, incompitent, unprofessional and dishonest, i rented  off countrywide/bridgfords for nearly 2 years and had nothing but trouble. if you want passing between staff none of which who know what they are doing, lost paerwork, no correspondence, wrong amounts of money taken from youre account and general rude unhelpful behaviour they will be perfect,
add that to lies, lost keys and conversations and emails actually being denied they will make you feel unbelievably frustrated.
my advise to tenants/landlords, go elsewhere
my advise to bridgfords is revise what youre actual job is and start again!

proof of how much this company actually cares is right here...not 1 reply to 70 complaints.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[11/10/2011 - annoyed rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[
absolutely horrendous, lazy, incompitent, un organised...shall i carry on!! spent 2 years renting through bridgfords in preston and they never failed to cock up the task given, they never called back, replied to queeries or even admitted to speaking to me! Danielle, Niki and team need to take a course in 'customer service'. 
to sum up..if you want to get ripped off, ignored, and have youre correspondence denied go with bridgfords, oh and dont forget they will keep youre deposit at the end of the lease as they will insist they have never recieved the property keys back! although they should chat to each other as half the team admits to receiving the envelope whilst the other insists they havent!!

good luck wi this one. 

not a happy customer from preston. 

not a happy landlord...


absolutely horrendous, lazy, incompitent, un organised...shall i carry on!! spent 2 years renting through bridgfords in preston and they never failed to cock up the task given, they never called back, replied to queeries or even admitted to speaking to me! D, N and team need to take a course in 'customer service'. 
to sum up..if you want to get ripped off, ignored, and have youre correspondence denied go with bridgfords, oh and dont forget they will keep youre deposit at the end of the lease as they will insist they have never recieved the property keys back! although they should chat to each other as half the team admits to receiving the envelope whilst the other insists they havent!!

good luck wi this one. 

not a happy customer from preston. 

not a happy landlord...<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[10/10/2011 - Smoky Joe rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Very nasty experience. I would never use this agent again.

It would be very boring to list every problem, but if you just think in terms of lazy and rude staff who have no interest in the tenant at all and bungle basic admin tasks, you will not be far wrong.

They are a large agency and have many interesting properties, but if you use them you will be taking a massive risk. Trust me.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[3/10/2011 - Alison rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[DO NOT use this agent

I have had two years of hell. Never speak to the same person. They never the right number to call. They do nothing for their management fee. 

I have just had solicitors chase me up for an invoice they were supposed to be dealing with. 2 years this invoice was outstanding and the first I heard of this was a summons to court. I asked the company who were unpaid and they said that they have been writing to Countrywide for 2 years to ask for the payment. I was totally unaware that this bill was unpaid. I NEVER leave bills unpaid and I was really upset.

Now I have found out that for the last 6 months I have not have the proper gas safety checks done which puts in a really bad position legally. It was their job to do this and they didn't. If my tenant had a problem with gas and was hurt as a result I would have ended up in jail

Also they never inform the council tax office when tenants move out - another of their jobs. I also got a court summons from Glasgow council for bills unpaid that I was not aware of 

I can't stand them. And they charge massive fees! DO NOT USE THEM

to top it all they NEVER answer their phone and at 3pm on a monday there was a message on the phone saying that it was outside office hours

THE WORST COMPANY EVER - I can't even bear to give them one star<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[30/8/2011 - Angie rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Absolutely awful company. Have been letting my 3 bed detached property in Darlington for almost 2 years. The first tenant did a midnight bunk without paying his rent for 2 months, had made so much damage and received so many 25 letters that there was no deposit left. So for the next set of tenants we requested working professionals, they put in a so called professional couple with a child who have been hit and miss with rent payments through out the 18 months they have lived there. Currently they have not paid for 2 months and have made 6 phone calls to Countrywide to get the legal protection for non payment of rent started as we live somewhere else and need the rent to pay the mortgage, but they are still not answering the questions about this. Will be putting this house on the market as soon as we have given 2 months notice to our now squatters, never going to go through this company again. No doubt will get ripped off again and not see a penny of the deposit.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/8/2011 - litterbox rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[As long as a person as to do 'something' they charge a MINIMUM of 25. Everything from a bit of dust to return of money accidentally paid to them.  Even the landlord is charged for duplicate tenancy documents at the start of a new tenancy, when all it cost is probably about 25 for a few button presses, paper and electricity.  A total of 250 to renew the agreement.  As an ex-landlord I was hellishly surprised that it would cost this much and surprised that the landlord was charged as well.  As a money making machine it works, as value and service to the customer it's very POOR value for money.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[23/8/2011 - Unhap rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I would advise anyone to avoid this company at all costs. Apart from all the charges they throw at you my main complaint is with the inventory system they use. When they check the flat at the start of the agreement all seems fine, no problem. Then at the end when they check again they check in many more places and much more thoroughly. It appears they are just looking for an excuse to charge you. I was charged 60 cleaning for dust on the sideboards and dirt in the washing machine (which I never used, never even opened the door) plus a 60 charge for &quot;Administrative charge for invoking dilaps process&quot;. Hopefully all this will back fire on them because I, and I am sure many others, will never use this company again.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[18/8/2011 - Catherine rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Just called up to ask about a property and asked for information for the fee's involved...
150 for the tenancy agreement
75 pp for a credit check
90 admin fee
50 for something else, I stopped the guy on the phone from talking at this stage! 440 for fee's?!?!?! No wonder that house is still vacant, even though the monthly rent is great the initial fee's make it totally unrealistic. It would take us 3 months to make that money back in saved rent!

Wish i could contact the landlord directly!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[16/8/2011 - stargirl rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 4 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The office staff were wonderful helping me out when I was in a most distressing situation. i needed somewhere to live very quickly. I now am living in a perfect house. I would like to thank them for their help, support and communication throughout the process.<br />This person would use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/8/2011 - happy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 5 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Having read all the disappointing reviews above, I am glad to say that I received an outstanding service from the branch in Leamington Spa. My tenants were found very quickly, and the whole process was efficient and painless, the staff were friendly. I hope this continues....<br />This person would use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/8/2011 - Mike rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 5 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I'd like to have rated them 0 stars, but was prevented from doing so.

Ironically, as a direct result of dealings with them, I decided that I could do a better job and now run a lettings agency elsewhere.

We had two flats with them in a new development (at the time) and they took an inordinate amount of time to let them.  They pressurised us into marketing at a rent higher than we needed on unencumbered flats, supposedly because otherwise we'd be &quot;lowering the development's value&quot;  

Since we were not local investors, we took a lot on trust and we were left with the distinct impression that they favoured local landlords who, presumably, they enjoyed better relationships with.

Following the comprehensive trashing of one of the flats, we moved one to a small independent agent who seems much better.

As an aside, they take very small deposits, resulting in greater losses.

I attempted on numerous occasions to complain to the franchisor, but they seemed to care less than the local management.

I am aware that all franchises operate to differing standards-just look at the variations of reviews anywhere on this site.

In my humble opinion, find one with NALS and SAFE agent accreditation, that has been trading long enough to know what they are about, but not long enough to have a huge managed portfolio.  The salesmen will boast about large portfolios, so it's easy enough to establish.

And use one where the business owner is still on the front line.  Generally they genuinely do care.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/8/2011 - Amanda rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Where do I start??? Firstly, one star is way too much.
Two years of complete mishandling with regard inspections. Gave them the benefit the first year, added written and verbal agreements to contract to inspect the property 4 times during this last year. How many times was the property inspected by Countrywide?? NONE!! 0000! Zero!!!
And what was there excuse??? &quot;Computer error&quot; &quot;A slight mistake&quot; &quot;It's not our fault&quot; 
And, when I said I'd had enough and was taking the property away from them, the senior lettings agency manager said &quot;Cool&quot; 

Amazing!!
I agree, if you want to stay sane, NEVER use Countrywide IOW.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[2/8/2011 - Lauren rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[What credit checking company do countrywide use as i have been told so many horror stoires about them? any ex tenants pleace can you advise me. 

Thanks<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[6/7/2011 - BRIGHT rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[It has been a very stressful two years with these estate agents and have caused us lot of anxiety and grief. They make their own rules and regulations and will try to make life difficult for you as a landlord no matter how .
Our tenant has also had a difficult time with them and will not use them again. No wonder many rental properties and sales are veering away from them.
They don't deserve even a single star rating.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[21/6/2011 - EX CRL  Customer rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Just one bit of advice.................AVOID these cowboys like the plague unless you want to lose a lot of money through their total incompetences<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/6/2011 - bmtg rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Beware of using Countrywide letting agents, they have so too many offices doing different tasks i.e Austin &amp; Wyatt Southsea find the tenant, Mann &amp; co do the maintenance, statements are sent from Mansfield and Legal Dept is just another office in Nottingham, Southsea branch do not explain how the Co operate so beware, read all their forms before you sign any agreement with Countrywide. 

They are so expensive they take monies from clients for things I never heard of i.e top up reserve 100.00 to 200.00 just held by them in case repairs are needed, another charge is monthly deposit scheme due about 2.00 p.m their inventory check out costs landlord 110.00 + v.a.t Inventory make/update115.00 +v.a.t. and many more fees they will charge . 

Out of my first monthly rent of 600.00 I ended up OWING Austin &amp; Wyatt 37.00, so beware as to what you are signing up to. Their sales technique is good so do query each item before you sign a agreement with Austin &amp; Wyatt. 

Disappointed client living overseas.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[8/6/2011 - ugis rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Horrible. Everything is really nice until you hand over your money. After they become so greedy. Charging you for things you haven't broken, not providing anything they're supposed to. Takes ages to get the deposit back, with mystical deductions.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[19/5/2011 - flowergirl 23 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I can not catch my breath ! 
My poor tenant has been accused of not paying her rent ! She has proved she has paid it by sending all her bank statements. Yet Taylors / Countrywide are still saying she has not paid it, and therefore have her account in arrears and have not paid me? They have the references. That by the way have not changed, but they are still not capable of finding the payment? They have called my tenant and upset her on numerous occasions! I have called and spoken to many departments, no -one knows anything? WTF! Oh my god how are they running a business?? I am currently trying to terminate my agreement but I am not sure how this will do.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[17/5/2011 - Frustrated Fella! rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I've been living in my flat for 18-months and the members of staff at this branch are so frustrating to deal with. I'm absolutely staggered by their incompetence. 

They've tried increasing my rent by 30 a month on my landlord's behalf - without telling my landlord, who wasn't happy about it!

They changed my electricity supplier - I have no idea how - by mistake. I had no knowledge of this before I had letters through the post. It took me 8 weeks to change it back and I was unable to go back onto my original tariff. 

When the central locks on the entrance to the building needed repairing, I phoned the Walsall branch to ask for the number of a maintenance contractor - as they 'manage' the property. They didn't have access to the number and told me to Google a few names they gave me. 

When I've phoned my landlord directly to repair things that have broken for the 3rd time, they question why I'm not using them.

Such a frustrating and flawed franchise. Avoid if you can.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[1/5/2011 - Steve rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Try to charge for a new inventory that they never did,  'hidden' charges,  only tell you what you want to hear, no support from them with problem tenants and  put a tenant into my property that was a non smoking, no pets and no children property, whom has a child!!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[31/3/2011 - vb rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[This person did not leave a review.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[30/3/2011 - tool rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Countrywide Residential Lettings are the worst letting agents I have ever had the displeasure of dealing with.  They are useless at returning calls, turning up for appointments, and attempted to charge me through the nose at every opportunity.  Do yourself a favour and avoid letting a flat from them.  <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[11/3/2011 - Kaspar rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Do not wanted to return my deposit. Despite the fact that I left flat neat and tidy (even more as it was before), they wanted to charge from me <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[2/3/2011 - frustratedfozzy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Awful. Very nice until you hand over your money. We've had a bathroom tap which doesn't work for 5 months, a board of wood in the living room which fell off a wall on our first day 5 months ago pending " landlords permission to remove it" and we are being absolutely pumped for money with stupid letting insurance (which they failed to tell me was a credit agreement and I was taking out a loan with a credit agency in order to pay it off). Dreading the point when I try to get my deposit back. When we moved in the oven was full of crumbs, there were dead flies everywhere and the place hadn't been hoovered in months yet they've sent a very patronising letter telling us how clean the flat should be before we get our deposit back. Also advised if we don't replace the lightbulbs then we will have money deducted from deposit. I wouldn't advise anyone to go near them!!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[24/2/2011 - luliebelle rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I recently went to view a property to let through Frank Innes which has been recently bought my Countrywide. All went well appointment was booked went along and was shown around by the current tenant who had nothing nice to say about her letting agent and I can't blame her! The ensuite shower was leaking so badly and for so long that all the paint on the ceiling and the walls downs stairs had bubbles and peeled off and the ensuite toilet had been broken for months despite the tenant reporting these faults numerous times.  

Frank Innes contacted me the next day to see if I was interested in the property I was but pointed out that there were some problems in the property which had to be put right before we moved in, the woman promptly brushed me off saying there were lots of other people interested in the house and I had to make my mind up quickly (I don't like being bullied into anything) I asked how much the admin fees and she replied its <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/2/2011 - disgruntled rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Beware of this company and SLM Lettings who are an umbrella company of Countrywide. They will charge you for everything: renewing tenancy agreements, references, not being able to make an appointment that they have arranged (they come to your rented property every three months during working hours to 'inspect' it - so if you work you have to take 4 days off a year to accomodate this!), so called admin fees, you name it they charge you for it. Furthermore they try to tie you down with a 6 month tenancy each time you renew (and of course you have to pay for it) when you can actually take a free monthly rolling tenancy (although they won't tell you this unless you say you can't afford to renew). And just you try to get out of the property! Four weeks notice - I think not. They will tell you that you are liable to pay the rent and all utility bills until your contract expires. As such if you have a 6 month tenancy, live in it for 3 months then decide to move out (say because it is a mouldy property), and give 4 weeks notice, you still have to pay everything for the full 6 months. When it is time to get your deposit back however you will wait ages and then fume as they deduct 'admin fees' from it. The staff are rude and obnoxious, they look down upon you and I would never ever deal with them again. An awful experience that I do not wish to repeat.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[3/2/2011 - Cuntrywide-fanclub rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Had no problems with the service until we tried to get our <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[1/2/2011 - Review TV rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Company you have to watch out for as service is very poor for a large company, I you contact this branch regarding something wrong in your property they dint seam to do anything about it and you end up chasing it up direct with your landlord that they say they can not get hold of!

Secondly they lose payments making out its your fault when its not on more than one occasion.
The main thing with this branch is to always note down with every conversation is a full name time and date (even record and calls or in person conversations with them as if there is a problem further down the line and its been there fault they will deny everything) Always have proof.
Wish I did!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[21/12/2010 - exclient rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Used the small private firm of Andrew Butler for many years. They managed a number of residential properties for me. All very satisfactory until sold to Countrywide. Service deteriorated, attempted to increase fees. Very slow at paying over rents. I sacked them and moved to another agent - still awaiting payment of final rents. May have to resort to County Court .

There are many good firms around, Countrywide are one to avoid.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[19/11/2010 - onehugeheadache rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Never use them - AWFUL. They are incapable of doing anything right.  Full management is a joke, accounts is useless - do not deserve to be ARLA recognised.  Now on my third complaint to head office and even they can't be bothered to respond.  Never, ever use them. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[11/11/2010 - ANTI Countrywide rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I will never use this company again. I had heard bad things about Countrywide before so decided to let my property through a small independant agency. When this agency sold their business to Countrywide, I suspected there might be trouble: loss of keys, failure to chase up repairs for 9 months (which hadn't been noticed due to...), failure to do regular property checks (as in the landlords' contract) failure to contract the relevant safety certificates so the tenants were living with a valid certificate for over 5 months, failure to enforce the contract that stated no redecoration and no children etc etc.

Now the tenants are moving out, the new letting agent has sent me almost 100 photographs re: the condition of the property - it's be neglected, filthy and is now full of damp and mould which wasn't there previously. Had they been there more regularly, they might have noticed what pigs were renting the property.

After 2 official complaints to the Head Office, this is now my 3rd and I am also threatening them with a complaint to The Property Ombudsman for not following the Code of Practice for Lettings Agents. www.tpos.co.uk

I recommend anyone who has an unresolved problem with this terrible agency to go there too!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[10/11/2010 - fedup rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Not sure how this company trains their staff - to be as obstructive, insulting, incompetent as possible?  Tenancy renewal was due in June - still haven't received a new contract, despite paying and reminders.  No water at the property in August (I was on holiday and asked a friend to stay at the house in our absence) - they didn't do anything, apart from telling me that the friend was not on the (non-existent) tenancy agreement and that, if the problem was the water companies fault, I'd have to pay the bill.  They schedule the worst possible times for their property check visits (weekday 3 hour slots around lunchtime, don't give an exact time, but threaten to fine you if you're not here - how do they think I earn my money for the rent?) and are not prepared to negotiate a reasonable time or more notice.  They told me today that they could not work around me!  Maybe they should invest in some costumer care courses.
Avoid, avoid, avoid!!!! Unfortunately, I'm on the whole happy with the property and the landlord, otherwise I'd move out.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/10/2010 - AD rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[This person did not leave a review.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[19/10/2010 - HowDareYouShaftPeople rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Cuntywide are the worst of the worst letting agents I have come across in the country. I use quite a few letting agents and thought I'll try this gang since they were so large I couldn't go wrong plus my property would be let out quickly. Ooh How Wrong!!!! It took them 3 months to find a tenant... that's right 3 months and they kept chopping the rent down further and further to an unbelievably low limit. (I've always rented it out at 400 but they couldn't get anyone to agree so it went to 350 and eventually they found a physco tenant who was complaining about everything under the sun which conveniently allowed them to bill me for ridiculous items before the tenant had moved in. I got extremely suspicious and asked to speak to the tenant just to verify it was her making the demands which they wouldn't allow me to do. 

Eventually I got fed up and told them to keep their tenant as I didn't have trust in their company but now they're trying to bill me for 375 + Vat for a finder's fee which was agreed at 200 + Vat to begin with. They said it's their discretion and they can change it to whichever figure they like depending on the circumstance. Absolute madness... I'm convinced the staff are chewing magic mushrooms all day long because you can't get through to them (phone rings out) and when you do they're living in fantasy land expecting you to believe what spout out they're mouths. It's disgusting, I even tried to council one of the staff members because I though she needed help once I found out it wasn't the tenant that was the one that was complaining it was actually 'their own staff'.

I passed the property to another letting agent who had it rented within 5 days at <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[15/10/2010 - soon_to_be_x_landlord rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[What can be said that has not been said already?
My first introduction to Countrywide was the result of my existing letting agency selling their property portfolio over to them on the understanding we retained our current terms and conditions.

I can't say it got off to a great start when they sent my "welcome pack" to the tenant, to this day they never have re-sent it although they admit they did send it incorrectly to the tenant.
When the existing tenant left they did not re market the property until asked why not, answer... they did not have a photo! I told them to use the old one, however they stated that the pic was taken in summer and it was now winter so it did not bear a true reflection of the property, god only knows why they could not take a new one. Eventually they marketed it, a tenant passed all criteria, I signed the heavily edited contract (edited by me to reflect my Ts & Cs), sadly I received no money for 1 and half months, after contacting them they informed me the tenant had cancelled the agreement, but they could not be bothered to tell me or re market it, if that was not bad enough they left the heating high and some lights on in the property resulting in a hefty bill for the 2 months it eventually sat empty for.

Currently trying to terminate my tenancy, more mythical charges being plucked out of the air, I have not mentioned these so far as there are far too many to go into, just beware, they also do not seem to be able to send a single rent receipt, I have received 2 for differing amounts every month (at least the added up amount is correct) and then there is there holding back of your money, still waiting for my Gas safety check money from March of this year to be refunded as they charged me twice, obviously 2 different amounts and 2 different months!! 

Beware the Peterborough branch is trading under Baristow Eves, I presume this is to try and avoid being tarred by the Countrywide name.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[16/9/2010 - Ex-employee rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[As an ex-employee of a south west property management office, allow me to offer some explanation and defence to some of my old colleagues...

Initially, the front end offices are targetted very aggressively to both to take on and subsequently let said properties. This leads tenants moving in to properties that are not fit to let. (Insufficint boilers etc)

Secondly, the accounts department are basically drones (They're trained this way) with little initiative for investigative work looking for missing funds etc. Coupled with this, the IT systems used are rubbish - including the new system which cost millions, this causes funds to be held back or not correctly allocated etc leading to delayed payments to landlords and equally important, to the contractors.

Reliable, intelligent and trustworthy contractors simply are not willing to wait 60-90 days for payment, leaving Countrywide with cowboys and scoundrels, thus maintenance issue being instructed by the employee but unanswered by the contractors.

I was in an office which was about 50% understaffed and would personally answer about 80 maintenance calls on a busy day.

I can honestly say the problem with the company on the whole is not due to the staff you will see or speak to but the higher management who provide absolutely no support to their workforce in any capacity, put ever increasing pressure not just on the front office but maintenance departments to fleece money out of landlords & tenants alike.

I have lengthy experience in lettings in various companies and departments and can honestly say the working conditions and direction from above are by far the worse I have ever heard or personally experienced. Plus their pay scale is sh*t.

Don't work for them, don't rent through them, don't let through them!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[6/9/2010 - missjtk rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[
I rented a flat in Bournemouth with Countrywide and this was a huge mistake. I had a leak that took forever to get fixed, a large roof fire caused by a contractor hired by Countrywide (to fix the leak). I went into Countrywide to speak with someone about the leak, the fire and was laughed at to my face whilst holding my newborn baby, I warn anyone, these people are not even humaine!

Never go with Countrywide, I am not the only person around town that has had massive problems with these people! Avoid this letting agent at all costs!!

Also yet again another case, my good friend Terry, he had so many problems with Countrywide and he had disabled children and he had so many problems with these awfull agents, he is no longer alive, and I would say that they played a big part in his suicide!!

Anyone knows how much of a struggle it can be to get together deposit, rent in advance and then agent fees and for what? Their not worth a free flat!!!

I will continue to warn anyone looking to rent property to stay away from these agents.



I rented a flat in Bournemouth with Countrywide and this was a huge mistake. I had a leak that took forever to get fixed, a large roof fire caused by a contractor hired by Countrywide (to fix the leak). I went into Countrywide to speak with someone about the leak, the fire and was laughed at to my face whilst holding my newborn baby, I warn anyone, these people are not even humaine!

Never go with Countrywide, I am not the only person around town that has had massive problems with these people! Avoid this letting agent at all costs!!

Also yet again another case, my good friend Terry, he had so many problems with Countrywide and he had disabled children and he had so many problems with these awfull agents.

Anyone knows how much of a struggle it can be to get together deposit, rent in advance and then agent fees and for what? Their not worth a free flat!!!

I will continue to warn anyone looking to rent property to stay away from these agents.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[6/8/2010 - Louise rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Everything was terrible. From the first second we moved in the moment we moved out. Fees were ridiculous, flat was dirty, they cocked up my tenants direct debits. The employees are rude, inefficient and unhelpful. Through the course of our tenancy they tried to increase our rent twice (in one year). I would NOT recommend them. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[4/8/2010 - Mr Unhappy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Hopeless.  Nothing ever their fault.  Send inspection notices less than a week before inspection threatening <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[29/7/2010 - pokey15 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The Glasgow branch of Coutrywide Residental letting are unprofessional, lazy, useless, unhelpful......

My tenants signed their contact on the 30th March 2010, I finally received my inventory (e-mailed to me) by Gail Wilson (head of letting in Glasgow) on the 6th May after complaining. Had to chase up rental income and kept getting fobbed off by lazy staff saying "its the bank holiday" after complaing to the payments department a helpful woman there found out that the tenants had changed their payment date, at no time was this passed on to me. 

The 4th month check on the flat was yesterday and I took the morning off to meet somebody from Countrywide at 10.15am at the flat, nobody turned up and I had to go back to work,  they turn up at back of 11 no phone call no text nothing!!!. The tenants quite clearly smoke even though I asked for non smokers.

I have the full management package but they do nothing for it.

Anybody in Glasgow looking to rent out their flat please please save yourself a lot of hassle and pain and don't touch Countrywide.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/7/2010 - FuzzyBee rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Absolutely appauling.  Very slow at fixing anything (waited 2 months to replace a broken and constantly leaking tap). Poor communication, had to chase everything.  Charged us for references and claimed this was in the goodwill letter - it was not.  Stay well clear.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[9/7/2010 - Cervantes rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I'm afraid I have to agree with the other contributors - Countrywide are crap. I have been a tenant here in Bolton for almost 3 years, and in that time have had occasion to contact them several times. They always promise to get back to you, and they never do. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[8/7/2010 - WeeWeedOff rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Terrible service.
6 months to repair a broken window.
Garden service was part of tenancy but stopped coming for 3 months - yet we still had to pay <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[30/6/2010 - Miss Happy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I was treated appalling  by the staff there & spoken to very rudely. I complained numerous times but still got spoken to by them terrible. I felt like i was treated very badly & wouldent reccomend them atall again to anyone.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[29/5/2010 - DanOlAlAmmie rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Countrywide Lettings are appauling! Whilst we dealt with the awful Bolton branch with the undertrained, rude and unprofessional staff the management up to area level were also very poor. Our experience from booking to moving was marred by a terrible service from CWL. They lied to both us and the landlord playing us off against each other to cover up their mistakes, which we have now confirmed. These include...
1) giving us the wrong keys and blaming us until they 'turned up'.
2) not telling the landlord our moving in date so that we were nearly turned away. 
3) giving us a totally incorrect inventory only after we had phoned 6 times to get sent any documention. 
4) not giving us meter readings until we had complained to senior management. 
5) exceedingly rude and deceptive treatment by management and staff etc etc.

We handed over more than 6000 for 6 months, including the 235 for "holding on to" the property for us. These people are very unprofessional and if we had time we would contact Watchdog. Beware! Hope this helps. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[25/5/2010 - Twinkle rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[
This branch threatened to evict me and left the message on my phone http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBriMIP7Vh0

Then this company after making me and my family homeless, all this for complaining about damp and conditions that developed in the property. They moved my deposit to another company that now take 3 months to resolve our dispute, that means they keep my money for another 3 months and keep the interest at that disgraceful company likewise Angela Parton the branch manager that runs this shower i am going to complain to my MP



This branch threatened to evict me and left the message on my phone http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBriMIP7Vh0

Then this company after making me and my family homeless, all this for complaining about damp and conditions that developed in the property. They moved my deposit to another company that now take 3 months to resolve our dispute, that means they keep my money for another 3 months and keep the interest at that disgraceful company. I am going to complain to my MP.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/4/2010 - Yate rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Without doubt the worst company I have ever come across. Customer service is abismal. If you have any problems and complain they will do nothing. Took me 40 days to get part of my deposit back. When i rang up complaing the lady actually was laughing at me on the phone. Do not trust Countrywide.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[26/4/2010 - Fedup rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Would not reccommend this company to anyone, paid <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[20/4/2010 - Fed-Up44 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[First property had a leak in the bathroom roof we were advised it would be fixed within that week. 3 days before our move in date, we were worried so we asked to view the proporty again, lo and behold, the ceiling in the bathroom was not fixed, they then said we could move in and they will get to it when they can. We then canceled our agreement and had to switch to another property. Then there was a problem with water heater in second property.... More than a year later after telling each agent that visited that there was a problem with it.... We are still waiting for the electrician to fix it.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[16/4/2010 - anp rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[This company should be avoided at all costs whether you are renting or a landlord. In the course of one year they lied to us and the tennants, they were late paying rent, very slow to address problems and never inspected the property. Any contact was met with ineptity, arrogance and complete lack of action. I really can not express my complete loathing and distrust for these people and with companies like this around to is no wonder the property business is held in such low regard. Please avoid.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[13/4/2010 - Boaby rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Exceptionally poor. I haven't heard of paying <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[9/4/2010 - kate rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Never been treated so badly in all my life would never ever rent from these again in a battle to get the deposit back from the issues that they have caused in the house.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[22/3/2010 - Broncoarmadillo rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Have rented 2 properties from this firm: the second time due to short notice of first lease not being renewed and we couldn't have gotten references out of them quickly enough to go with a different agent.

I am fed up of information we give them not being passed on to the landlord including signs of possible subsidence. The inventory listed rooms that didn't exist and missed out rooms that were there.

Huge deductions from previous deposit made, seemingly at random, when we moved out, for things like 'gardening work' between our leaving the property and them checking it 2 days later.

They let us move into the first property, with a new-born baby, with no heating and a broken oven (we were moving to the UK from overseas and had to take the property unseen). The oven was never fixed as they said that we had broken it.

I am currently drafting a letter that lists exactly when our cleaning and making good takes place at our current property and will be handing a copy to the landlord who is also annoyed with the shoddy service thay have provided.  He will be checking the place out the day before we leave.

We have had people viewing with no notice, and have come home to find doors left unlocked.  When we have refused to let people in as we have not been notified they have been incredibly rude and seem to think it is our fault that they have not followed the guidelines in their own contract.

This company are the worst I have ever dealt with, despite renting in a number of countries that do not have laws to protect the tenant.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[16/3/2010 - James rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Up until a month ago I let a property through this branch of Countrywide, and found even the simplest tasks were beyond them. A sample of their mistakes during the two years I used them are below:

1. Consistently, despite repeated written and verbal instruction to stop, sending two copies of each monthly statement to me, each with different account codes and statement numbers, causing mayhem when doing my accounts and annual tax return

2. Omitting to mention the incoming tenant had 3 children. On finding out during a lease renewal process and querying why we weren't told we were told by their rep we had been and that 'they didn't want to call us liers but....' 

3. On cancelling the contract with them, they required about 5 chaser e-mails before the expense reserve monies were sent over to me.

4. On doing the deposit inspection of the property following the tenant leaving, forgetting to mention that the tenant had taken all the knobs off the cupboards from the kitchen.

5. When the tenant came to renew the lease, I had to chase and chase and chase the branch to get a new lease prepared and sent to the tenant. Eventually gave up dealing with the branch as they'd stopped returning any calls and had to deal with their central admin team. They weren't shy about promptly charging me the <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[9/2/2010 - talktothewall rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[In over 40 years of business these are the most incompetent, unprofessional, inefficient bunch I have ever had the misfortune to deal with. Avoid at all costs! <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[1/12/2009 - old man rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Now given up with them after several years with a few properties - just getting worse! Letters out of nowhere saying I owe them money! Statements with no rationale behind descriptions! Not giving trustworthy advice! Letters not answered! Promised information not forthcoming! The sooner I am completly out of there hands the better.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[5/11/2009 - anom rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[CRL Southampton have been nothing but rubbish! We have only been in this flat for a month and have had so many problems already!

Before we arrived they accidentaly sent us a letter meant for the previous tennat showing all the problems int he flat and the deductiosn made to their deposit. Most of it was cleaning related and since they took deposit to pay for cleaning we assumed when we arrived the flat would be pretty clean. It wasn't.

We arrived to find dirt everywhere. Large bin bags full of trash, ciggarette ashes and butts (despite it being a no smoking flat), random ugly furniture despite it being a non furnished place. We had to spend over three hours cleaning before we moved our stuff in.

Further more there were items left in cupboards etc. It looked like someone still lived there. Cuttlery, crockery, a washign machine not listed at any time (we had brought our own), dirty quilts etc. Worse still we were told we could not remove any of this stuff as it had been provided by the landlord (a lie since we know they charged the previous tennats for leaving it all). Now we are left with a cupboard of other people's stuff and some furniture we don't want.

Then we were informed they would contact the electricty and water suppliers for us. Over a month later and several requets to the estatse agents and we still have heard nothing. In fact letteres from Npower are still comming here adressed to the previous tennants.

We also asked them to send us the details for the landlord so we could set up a standing order to pay our rent. Three weeks later we recieved two identical letters with the details on. The date the letters told us to set it up for was the 13th of every month. We thought this was strange since we moved in on the 25th but we did it and everythign was fine.

Until today when we got a letter from CRL saying our rent is overdue and should have paid on the 25th! We were sent TWO letters saying the 13th! The date made a big differance too as we are students and rely on student loans to pay the rent. If we paid on the 25th we woudl have to pay 3 installmenst of the rent using our first loan instalment and have no money for xmas but the 13th means we woudl only pay 2 beofore we got a new istalment of loan so could buy xmas pressents. Now we are told we have to pay more rent and because of their mistake we have already spent the money needed to pay it!

These guys are terrible and I urge others not to go with them!

I'm goign to have to go in to town and complain to them....AGAIN! Don't make the same mistake I did.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[20/10/2009 - Intershop rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Avoid the Walsall branch if you see your property as investment. If they are fully managing the property, make sure that you attend the check-out report. TDS use this as primary evidence. I really do hope that this helps someone.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[12/10/2009 - PJ40 rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[A bunch of middle-aged women in the Preston branch clearly out of their depth. Flat was let to me with many problems (damp, dirt and dust), which have not been resolved. Worse, agent has been demanding EXCESS RENT even when account is in arrears! Totally incompetent bunch. I pity the landlord because he is not getting value for his money from this bunch. Leaving as soon as my tennancy term ends!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[7/9/2009 - Stoo rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I have dealt with the Glasgow branch. Flat was filthy when we moved in and they have the cheek to send a letter out asking that the flat must be "professionally" cleaned. We certainly weren't extended the same courtesy by the previous tenant. It took us nearly 3 months to have an oven repaired that was highlighted in our check in. Staff's arrogance is only outweighed by their incompetence.  <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[28/7/2009 - Salor rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 5 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Used them for years now and found my branch consumately professional, knowledgable and capable. <br />This person would use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[26/6/2009 - DP rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Awful.. nice sales pitch followed by schoolboy service. When they were taken over by Gascoigne Pees I was hopeful things would get better. Sadly it didn't. Not only was I abused as the landlord, good tenants were too. They left my heating on for 3 months in an empty flat, left my TV on standby for the same period, didn't pick up needed repairs in the checks (assuming they actually went) or the inventory check out. Did not monitor or control contractors repair work. I dealt with in excess of 10 people when I asked for one. Mis information, conflicting information. Totally inept, incompetent, useless leaches. Avoid the windsor branch of gascoigne pees (previously CRL) at all costs. I notice many of the comments from tenants here and it is no different for the landlord. They are in it for themselves and the service to the other two parties is awful. By far my worst experience as a landlord of 10 years.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[5/6/2009 - UrHavinaLaugh rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[I dont realy know where to start with this company. From day one we had nothing but hastle with this company. Not doing half of what they say they will, changing there story whenever they feel like it. lanlady didnt do half of what was supposed to ither. Each member of staff dosnt appear to know what the other ones doing, staff are quick to assume, some are cheeky and they stand by the landlord no-matter what. We moved in for just over 3 weeks, found out 1 neighbour was on parole and tagged, breaking into ppl`s flats, terrorising the neighbours. tried to break in my bedroom window while i was sleeping to stab me. had to move out the next day as police let him back out and he was living right beside me. police deemed it unsafe for us to stay there. notified Countrywide Residential Letting who appologied and said that due to the ciromstances should be ok to break our contract. landlady decided wanted to hold us to it, lose our deposit, pay the council tax for the 12 months and pay any fees to get new tennant in. Countrywide are standing by her. Landlady is refusing to budge and denying all knowlage of any trouble around her flat (even though its been going on for well over a year, new lock was also on security door which landlady was aware of and didnt have a key for, also neighbour moved out beside us after only 2 weeks for same hastle). We now not only have nowhere to stay, we are having a legal battle, go to court because of our neighbour, have lost our deposit and are expected to pay not only our contract but extras. This company are needing to brighten their act up and stop siding with landlords quite as much and look at the big picture. I for one find this company quite laughable and if anyone desides to use this letting agency, all i can say is, good luck to you! <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[16/3/2009 - luca rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[It was a nightmare to have my deposit back!! Basically they think they have right to claim part of it, with one excuse or another, a bit like a disconnection charge.

Things started going wrong with the check out inventory:

1) The agent who did the check out asked me to clean here and there, moving the furniture to unveal every possible hidden dust, as she said that would have avoided me paying for a cleaning service, since the flat was overall clean. I did it, but after that she said that I would have been charged (can't remember the exact figure) for cleaning. Don't think that is acceptable.

2) She also told me she was going to charge me for some dents on the floor caused by the chairs provided by the landlord. I think that is to be considered normal tear and wear from the usage of the flat, thus not chargable. As she also acknowledged, the damage would have been much more serious if I had not taken care of fitting some rubber caps to the chairs (the ones in place were toatally uneffective and it took me a couple of days to realise that and find a solution), which are simply not suitable for usage on a wooden floor.

3) She also found a spot on the carpet that I have not caused, but was just not included in the inventory.

Furthermore, after I said I would start a dispute about the deductions from the deposit, they just increased those deductions by135<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[12/3/2009 - Izzy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Billericay Branch

Our flat had numerous problems such as damp & flooding etc, which never got resolved.  We left as soon as possible and we were perfect tenants but never got our deposit back.  In the end the stress caused was worse than pursuing the money.  Instead we've told everyone we know to avoid them.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[22/2/2009 - Anon rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Do not even consider using this bunch of inept jokers, I simply do not have the time to list here the amount of problems I have had with CRL. Beyond useless, if this company finds itself out of business as a result of the current recession it will be no loss and no surprise whatsoever. 

Avoid at all cost.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[21/2/2009 - Albi Senior rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Incompetence is not the word to describe this organisation. They are unbelievably inept (certainly in Bristol) and I have no doubt that their residential lettings outfit in Cheam are tarred with the same brush. From unanswered telephone calls to just not knowing what was going on, this outfit are truly misreable firm to deal with. I would treat this lot with the same contempt that banks now find themselves in.
Shocking and one to avoid at all costs. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[30/10/2008 - Lyndsey rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The staff at Countrywide residential lettings in Preston are possibly the most incompetent people I've ever met.  

We've rented with them for two and a half years and have had no end of problems.  Every time something needed fixing it took us at least 4 phone calls of constantly chasing them up to get anything done.  They never call back when they are supposed to, and every time I ever spoke to a member of them team I had to re-tell them the problem again because it was as though the issue had never been logged in the first place.  I'm moving out in the next month and am worried they'll do everything they can do to not return our deposits.  If anyone has any advice on how to deal with them on this please let me know.  I cannot stress enough NEVER rent with Countrywide!

Lyndsey<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[23/9/2008 - Alice rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Ineffective, uncommitted, passive staff providing an unsatisfactory service.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[14/9/2008 - boo rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Worst ever rental agency I should say... Totally erratic.. Took almost over 3 months to return deposit in rented property at Aldershot. Never visit this agent. <br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[25/8/2008 - Taylor Housing. rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[As large self managing portfolio owners we let them manage a satellite property of ours in Nottingham. Worst management I have ever experienced in my career. Totally incompetent and even charged for visits they did not make.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[6/8/2008 - Nick rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Rented a flat from them. Took our rent for 6 months in advance, independant inventory assessment at the end of the lease was unfair -blamed and claimed expenses from tenants for defects in the flat that we already told them when we first moved in and stated in the inventory form.
Avoid!!!<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[30/5/2008 - lucy rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Avoid Avoid Avoid.
Staff are rude, unhelpful and incompetent.
Do not use this agent.
Repairs are not dealt with quickly and they give you no notice what so ever.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[8/12/2007 - John S rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[We rented a property via Countrywide Residential Lettings, they staff were not very helpful with problems and this was a managed flat!!

Came to leaving and their claimed to have an independant inventory done however very dodgy, also took them 3 weeks to return deposit.

AVOID<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[23/10/2007 - Processhater rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 1 star]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[Rented a flat through Countrywide Residential Lettings in Oxford. When I arrived the day we checked-in (moved in), to find no cleaning had been done (rubbish in the bin, toilet had not been cleaned and smelt like a public toilet, carpet hadn't been cleaned or vacuumed, food on the plates etc).  

I complained and they said 'we'll send out our cleaner again to clear'! 

We are about to move out, tenants have the right to have 24hrs notice of potential viewers..... hmmm yeah right, 2 hours before hand they ring to see if they can come over..... bet it ain't gonna be easy to get the deposit back.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item><item>
		<title><![CDATA[10/9/2007 - james rated Countrywide Residential Lettings 2 stars]]></title>
		<link>http://www.allagents.co.uk/countrywide/</link>
		<description><![CDATA[The Countrywide Residential Lettings are involved in the Dispute Committee and make you real trouble in getting your deposit back.<br />This person would not use Countrywide Residential Lettings again.]]></description></item>
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