letting agent has moved in new tenants without notifying us (so no contract etc..)

Better_Days

Earlier in the year I was chatting to an EA who used to work for a big chain - she told me they would charge both the LL and tenant for credit checks and references but not undertake them and charge the LL for repairs that weren't done/didn't need doing.

I would certainly ask for a copy of the credit reference which should have been done (and for which the tenant would have been charged) If nothing else it will hopefully put your mind at rest.

As others have said make sure the deposit has been protected.

In the future I would make it clear, in writing that no tenant should be approved without you first reviewing the credit reference.

As there is a problem with damp could you contact the tenant direct to arrange for a mutually convenient time for you to go round and assess the problem. It will also give you an opportunity to ask the tenant how effecient they think the LA is and if their fees are reasonable. LA's can be reluctant to let LL's know how much they charge tenants.