New rental ratings and reviews platform tries to cut out lettings agents

A new online platform says it allows renters and landlords to review each other and give Trustpilot-style ratings - but it is seeking to exclude agents.

HomeRenter - which has backing from the Trinity Mirror media group - says it enables both tenants and landlords to review each other during a tenancy and then again at the end; it claims this will align the sector more closely with the likes of TripAdvisor and Airbnb.

It suggests that through the ratings and reviews service, landlords can evaluate their previous and current tenants. ‘Mid-tenancy’ ratings are based on measures such as timely rent payment; any noise or neighbour issues; treatment of property and promptness in reporting issues.

The ‘end of tenancy’ ratings are similar, but include scores for the condition of the property when the tenant moves out. These ratings are then factored into the tenant’s ‘HomeRenter Tenant Score’ which is visible on their profile page on the site.

To capture reviews on landlords, HomeRenter invites previous and current tenants to share their renting experience. The five star rating system means tenants can rate the condition of a rental property. These focus on metrics such as value for money, maintenance, transport and how responsive landlords are to issues raised.

“The traditional referencing and security deposit model for tenants is antiquated and in need of a radical shake-up to get in shape for 21st century renting. Having a review system in place facilitates a more transparent market place for both tenants and landlords” claims Will Handley, chief executive of HomeRenter.

This isn't the first review site of its kind for the rental sector - about 15 months ago a platform called Marks Out Of Tenancy launched with similar goals.