A BLACKROD councillor, who rents out several houses, has called on his fellow landlords to visit their properties more often after several bad experiences with letting agents.

Former Mayor of Blackrod, Cllr Stephen Laycock, is recommending landlords visit the homes they rent out.

Cllr Laycock has had four letting agents in just five years.

He said while the majority of letting agents are likely to manage properties appropriately, his experiences have resulted in two different court cases with firms who he said were not carrying out their role of looking after his interests.

Cllr Laycock added: “I have had problems including agents asking contractors to add considerable amounts on to repair bills or failing to make inspections.

“I would like to suggest that Bolton landlords should visit their properties at least once a year.”

The National Landlords Association said it would support any campaign which aims to “educate landlords about their responsibilities and obligations”.

Richard Lambert, chief executive of the NLA, said: “The NLA advise landlords to pick an agent who is a member of a professional trade body.”

Philip Chadwick, who is on the divisional board of the Association of Residential Lettings Agent, said: “Sadly there is no regulation in the industry and it is something that we have pushed for. There needs to be regulation.”