Lethq.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website Lethq.co.uk, it provides tenant referencing, credit checks, and specialist insurance products for landlords, letting agents, housing associations, and tenants across the UK. While the services offered—such as tenant referencing, ID checks, and AML checks—are generally beneficial for ensuring a transparent and secure rental process, the inclusion of insurance products necessitates a cautious approach from an ethical standpoint. Conventional insurance, often involving elements of gharar (uncertainty) and riba (interest), is a contentious issue in Islamic finance.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Focus: Tenant referencing, credit checks, and insurance for the UK rental market.
Key Services: Tenant Referencing, Rent Guarantee Insurance, Landlord Insurance, Digital ID Checks, Digital Right to Rent Checks, AML Checks.
Ethical Consideration (Insurance): The conventional insurance products offered by Lethq.co.uk may not align with Islamic financial principles due to the presence of gharar and riba.
Strengths: ISO27001 certified for data security, fast turnaround times for referencing, positive customer testimonials (ESTAS awards).
Pricing: Starts from £160.00 for services; free user account setup.
Overall Recommendation: While the verification and referencing services are valuable, potential users are advised to exercise caution regarding the insurance products and seek Sharia-compliant alternatives where applicable.

Lethq.co.uk positions itself as a market leader, offering “award-winning” services and boasting ISO27001 certification for data security, which is a significant plus. They highlight their speed, affordability, and customer support, with staff having relevant industry experience. However, the core issue for those seeking to adhere to Islamic financial principles lies in the insurance offerings. Traditional insurance contracts often involve elements that are considered impermissible in Islam, such as interest-based dealings and excessive uncertainty. Therefore, while services like tenant referencing and AML checks are beneficial for ensuring legitimate transactions and protecting property, the insurance aspect warrants careful consideration. It’s always prudent to seek alternatives that are structured according to Takaful principles, which are based on mutual cooperation and shared responsibility, rather than conventional insurance models.

Here are some ethical alternatives to consider, particularly for financial protection and secure dealings in the property sector, focusing on Sharia-compliant approaches and other essential services:

Takaful (Islamic Insurance): Instead of conventional insurance, explore Takaful providers in the UK. Takaful operates on principles of mutual cooperation, where participants contribute to a fund that is used to pay claims. It avoids riba (interest) and gharar (excessive uncertainty).

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Key Features: Sharia-compliant, mutual assistance, transparent operations.
Price: Varies based on coverage, generally comparable to conventional insurance but structured differently.
Pros: Ethical, peace of mind regarding adherence to Islamic principles, promotes solidarity.
Cons: Fewer providers compared to conventional insurance, might require more research to find specific products.

Ethical Banking & Halal Investment Platforms: For managing funds related to property investments or rent, look into ethical banks or investment platforms that adhere to Islamic finance principles. This avoids interest-based loans and savings.
- Key Features: Interest-free banking, ethical investment screening, Sharia-compliant products.
- Price: Varies depending on services, generally transparent fee structures.
- Pros: Supports ethical financial ecosystem, avoids riba, promotes fair transactions.
- Cons: Limited availability of fully Sharia-compliant retail banking options in some areas.
Credit Referencing Agencies (Directly Accessible): While Lethq.co.uk offers this, landlords and letting agents can directly use established credit referencing agencies like Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion to conduct checks.
- Key Features: Comprehensive credit reports, identity verification, financial history.
- Price: Typically a per-check fee, or subscription models for frequent users.
- Pros: Direct control over the process, widely recognised and trusted data.
- Cons: Requires direct account setup, may not integrate with other property management tools as seamlessly.
Identity Verification Services: For digital ID checks and right-to-rent verification, independent identity verification providers can be used to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Key Features: Secure identity document verification, biometric checks, compliance with Home Office guidelines.
- Price: Per-transaction fee or subscription.
- Pros: Ensures legal compliance, enhances security, reduces fraud risk.
- Cons: May require integrating multiple services for a complete solution.
AML (Anti-Money Laundering) Compliance Software: Specialist software solutions exist for Anti-Money Laundering checks, crucial for letting agents and landlords handling significant transactions.
- Key Features: Automated AML screening, real-time data, compliance reporting.
- Price: Subscription-based, varies by volume of checks.
- Pros: Ensures regulatory compliance, protects against financial crime, streamlines due diligence.
- Cons: Can be an additional cost if not integrated with other services.
Property Management Software with Integrated Referencing: Many modern property management platforms offer integrated tenant referencing modules, sometimes partnering with reputable agencies, providing a holistic solution.
- Key Features: Rent collection, maintenance tracking, tenant communication, referencing integration.
- Price: Monthly subscription, often tiered by number of properties.
- Pros: All-in-one solution, streamlines operations, often includes robust security.
- Cons: May not offer Takaful insurance options, so the insurance aspect still needs separate consideration.
Legal Consultations on Tenancy Agreements: For robust protection, especially concerning rent guarantees and legal cover, consulting a solicitor specialising in property law can provide tailored advice and ensure tenancy agreements are watertight.
- Key Features: Customised legal advice, drafting/reviewing tenancy agreements, dispute resolution guidance.
- Price: Hourly rates or fixed fees for specific services.
- Pros: Expert legal protection, ensures compliance, provides clarity on landlord-tenant rights.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than off-the-shelf insurance, but offers bespoke legal security.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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Table of Contents

Lethq.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on Lethq.co.uk, you’re greeted with a professional, well-organised site that immediately conveys its purpose: streamlining tenant referencing and providing related insurance products. The initial impression is one of efficiency and trustworthiness, which is crucial in the property sector. They highlight their “award-winning” status and ISO27001 certification, suggesting a commitment to quality and data security. However, as discerning users, we need to dig deeper than just the surface-level claims.

Initial Impressions and User Experience

The website’s layout is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate through their services. The homepage clearly outlines their offerings for landlords, letting agents, and tenants, which is helpful for quickly identifying relevant sections.

Clean Design: The site uses a modern design with clear calls to action.
Easy Navigation: Menus are logical, guiding users to “About,” “Services,” “Blog,” and “Contact Us.”
Mobile Responsiveness: The site adapts well to various screen sizes, ensuring a good experience on mobile devices.

Transparency and Essential Information

One of the cornerstones of a reputable service is transparency. Lethq.co.uk provides direct links to their Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy, which is a positive sign for data handling. They also prominently display contact details, including an email address and phone number.

Privacy and Cookie Policies: Easily accessible PDFs, demonstrating compliance efforts.
Contact Information: Clear display of email and phone number for support.
Company Background: The “About Us” section details their founding in 2016 and connection to APCS, a large UK Umbrella Body for DBS checks, lending credibility to their experience in verification services.

Lethq.co.uk Cons (Ethical Considerations)

While Lethq.co.uk offers various beneficial services, the primary concern from an ethical perspective, especially within an Islamic framework, revolves around its insurance offerings. Conventional insurance, as widely practised, often contains elements that are generally not permissible in Islam.

The Issue with Conventional Insurance

Traditional insurance policies, including Rent Guarantee Insurance and Landlord Insurance, typically operate on principles that involve gharar (excessive uncertainty or speculation) and riba (interest). Malton-gates.co.uk Review

Gharar (Uncertainty): In conventional insurance, there’s often significant uncertainty regarding the payout for the policyholder. You pay a premium, but whether you receive a payout depends entirely on an uncertain future event (e.g., tenant default, property damage). This level of uncertainty is considered impermissible.
Riba (Interest): Insurance companies often invest the premiums they collect in interest-bearing instruments. This makes the entire operation indirectly connected to riba, which is strictly forbidden in Islam.
Lack of Mutual Cooperation: Traditional insurance is often a contract between the policyholder and the insurer, where the insurer profit from the premiums. In contrast, Islamic finance promotes Takaful, which is based on mutual cooperation and shared responsibility among participants.

Ethical Alternatives to Insurance

For those seeking to protect their assets and income without compromising Islamic principles, Takaful is the preferred alternative.

Takaful: This is a Sharia-compliant form of insurance where participants contribute to a fund (donating premiums), and this fund is used to pay claims of other participants. The concept is based on mutual help and solidarity.
- Operational Model: Profits from investments (which must be Sharia-compliant) are distributed among participants.
- Example: A Takaful scheme for property would have landlords contribute to a collective fund to cover potential losses, with surplus funds being returned to participants or carried over.
Self-Insurance/Contingency Funds: Landlords can set aside a dedicated contingency fund for potential issues like rent arrears or property damage. While this requires capital, it avoids the ethical issues of conventional insurance.
Robust Tenant Vetting: While not a direct alternative to insurance, comprehensive tenant referencing (which Lethq.co.uk does offer) significantly reduces risk. By thoroughly vetting tenants, landlords can minimise the likelihood of default, thereby reducing the need for rent guarantee insurance.

Lethq.co.uk Alternatives

Given the ethical considerations surrounding conventional insurance, landlords and letting agents looking for Sharia-compliant solutions or direct verification services have several robust alternatives. It’s about ensuring due diligence and protection without compromising principles.

Sharia-Compliant Financial Protection

For insurance, the primary alternative is Takaful. While Lethq.co.uk offers conventional insurance, seeking out Takaful providers specifically for property and rent protection is crucial for adherence to Islamic principles.

Specific Providers: Research UK-based Takaful companies or global providers with a presence in the UK. Examples include, though not exhaustive and requiring individual vetting:
- Islamic Bank of Britain (Al Rayan Bank) – While a bank, they often partner with or can advise on Takaful providers for related services.
- Look for specialist Takaful brokers or direct providers.
Key Benefit: Peace of mind knowing your financial protection aligns with Islamic ethics, avoiding riba and gharar.

Independent Tenant Referencing & Verification Services

Beyond Lethq.co.uk, several established platforms offer professional tenant referencing, credit checks, and identity verification services. These are generally permissible as they involve gathering factual data for due diligence.

Experian UK: A global leader in credit reporting, offering tenant checks, credit scores, and identity verification for landlords.
- Features: Comprehensive credit history, CCJ checks, affordability assessments.
- Pros: Highly reputable, extensive data, direct access for landlords.
- Cons: Can be slightly more expensive per check than some bundled services.
TransUnion UK: Another major credit reference agency providing tenant referencing services.
- Features: Similar to Experian, focusing on financial stability and background checks.
- Pros: Trusted source, detailed reports, often used by large letting agencies.
- Cons: Interface might be geared more towards large businesses, potentially less intuitive for individual landlords.
Equifax UK: The third of the “big three” credit agencies, offering services for assessing tenant suitability.
- Features: Credit checks, address history, linked addresses.
- Pros: Reliable data, essential for comprehensive tenant vetting.
- Cons: Primarily credit-focused, may require additional ID verification services.
Onfido: A global leader in identity verification and background checks, offering advanced AI-powered solutions for digital ID verification and AML compliance.
- Features: Biometric verification, document authenticity checks, global coverage.
- Pros: Cutting-edge technology, highly secure, excellent for digital right-to-rent and AML.
- Cons: More enterprise-focused, might be overkill for individual landlords but ideal for larger agencies.
Landlord referencing platforms (e.g., Rent Protection Solutions): Many dedicated landlord platforms offer referencing as part of their suite of services. Look for those that explicitly separate referencing from insurance.
- Features: Integrated referencing, sometimes with rent collection and tenancy agreement generation.
- Pros: Streamlined process, often tailored to landlord needs.
- Cons: Ensure their partners for referencing are ethical and the platform doesn’t push conventional insurance.

Lethq.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the cost is always key when evaluating any service. Lethq.co.uk states that “Our prices start from just £160.00” and “Setting up a user account is FREE.” This suggests a tiered or per-service pricing model rather than a monthly subscription for basic access. Sixthart.co.uk Review

Pricing Structure Overview

From the information available on their homepage, Lethq.co.uk appears to operate on a pay-per-use model for individual services, particularly their referencing checks.

Free Account Setup: This is a clear advantage, allowing users to register and explore the platform without an upfront financial commitment.
Service-Specific Pricing: The “from £160.00” likely refers to their comprehensive tenant referencing packages, possibly including some level of insurance or a bundled service.
No Monthly Fees: They explicitly state “No set up charges or monthly fees, no need to top up or buy credits. Only pay for what you order.” This is appealing for landlords or agencies who may not have a consistent, high volume of referencing needs.
Monthly Invoice/Direct Debit for Letting Agents: For professional letting agents with higher volumes, they offer more flexible payment terms, subject to criteria.

What Impacts the Price?

The actual price you pay will depend on the specific services you utilise.

Type of Reference: They mention “Express” and “Advanced” references. The advanced reference, which provides more in-depth information like credit worthiness and affordability, is likely at the higher end of the pricing spectrum. Express checks are faster and presumably less costly.
Additional Checks: Digital ID Checks, Digital Right to Rent Checks, and AML Checks are listed as separate services, and it’s reasonable to assume each comes with its own fee or is bundled into specific packages.
Insurance Products: The cost of Rent Guarantee Insurance and Landlord Insurance will vary significantly based on coverage, property value, and specific policy terms, and these are typically premium services beyond basic referencing.

Cost-Benefit Analysis for Ethical Users

For those seeking to use Lethq.co.uk solely for their permissible services (like referencing, ID checks, AML checks) while avoiding the insurance, the pricing for these specific checks needs to be weighed against direct alternatives.

Cost Efficiency for Referencing: If their referencing services are competitively priced and meet the ethical criteria (no interest-based components within the referencing process itself), they could be a viable option for due diligence.
Avoiding Bundles: Users must be vigilant to avoid inadvertently purchasing bundles that include conventional insurance. It’s crucial to select only the permissible services.
Comparing “Free” Offers: While account setup is free, the actual cost comes with each order. Comparing these per-check costs with direct services from Experian, TransUnion, or other specialist referencing agencies is advisable.

How to Cancel Lethq.co.uk Services (and Free Trial)

Given Lethq.co.uk’s model of “no set up charges or monthly fees,” the concept of cancelling a traditional “subscription” doesn’t entirely apply in the same way it would for a recurring service. However, understanding how to cease engagement or discontinue using their services is still important.

Cancelling Services (Pay-Per-Use Model)

Since Lethq.co.uk operates on a pay-per-order basis, there isn’t a continuous “subscription” to cancel for their primary referencing services. Unicornaccounting.co.uk Review

No Ongoing Commitment: You simply stop placing new orders. If you have an account, it remains open and available for future use, but you won’t be charged unless you initiate a new service.
Payment on Submission: “Checks can be paid for on submission online by payment card.” This means each transaction is discrete. Once a check is submitted and paid for, it proceeds as a completed service. There isn’t a refund process for completed checks unless there’s a clear service failure.
For Letting Agents (Monthly Invoice/Direct Debit): If a letting agent has set up a monthly invoice or direct debit account, they would need to formally contact Lethq.co.uk’s customer service to terminate this specific arrangement. This would involve a cancellation process similar to a traditional business account.
- Action: Contact their customer service line (0151 606 5106) or email ([email protected]) to discuss the terms of cancelling your monthly account arrangement. Be prepared to provide your account details and discuss any outstanding payments.

“Free Trial” Equivalency

Lethq.co.uk mentions “Setting up a user account is FREE.” This acts as their equivalent of a free trial or free access tier.

No Expiration: There’s no time-limited “free trial” that converts to a paid subscription. The free account setup means you can create an account and explore the platform’s interface and features without charge.
No Automatic Charges: You won’t be charged anything until you actively decide to purchase and submit a referencing check or other paid service.
How to “Cancel” the Free Account: If you wish to fully remove your free user account from their system, you would need to contact their customer support directly. They might require a formal request to delete your account and associated data.
- Action: Email [email protected] or call 0151 606 5106 to request account deletion. Ensure you confirm what data will be removed and what, if any, will be retained for legal or compliance reasons.

General Advice for Disengaging

Review Terms & Conditions: Always review any specific terms and conditions or service agreements you might have entered into, especially if you are a letting agent with a direct debit arrangement.
Data Deletion: If you’re concerned about data privacy after ceasing use, explicitly request data deletion in line with GDPR regulations. As an ISO27001 certified organisation, they should have clear procedures for data management and deletion requests.
Communication is Key: For any specific query about account closure or cancellation, direct communication with their customer service is the most effective approach.

Lethq.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Lethq.co.uk, it’s helpful to compare its offerings, particularly the ethical aspects, against other players in the UK tenant referencing and property services market. The comparison primarily focuses on the core services and the ethical implications of their broader offerings.

Lethq.co.uk’s Strengths in Comparison

Lethq.co.uk highlights several competitive advantages:

Speed: “Full reference results in as little as 1 hour” for express checks. This is a significant differentiator, as many traditional referencing services can take 24-48 hours or longer, especially if chasing references.
Affordability & Pricing Model: Their “No set up charges or monthly fees, no need to top up or buy credits. Only pay for what you order” model is very attractive, particularly for individual landlords or smaller agencies with fluctuating needs. Many competitors operate on subscription models or require credit top-ups, which can be less flexible.
Customer Support & Expertise: “All staff are ex-letting agents or landlords and we’re all trained to at least CIH Level 2 in housing.” This practical industry experience can lead to more nuanced support compared to generic call centres.
ISO27001 Certification: This is a strong point for data security. Not all smaller referencing companies will have this rigorous certification, providing an edge in data protection and trustworthiness.
Awards: Winning ESTAS awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024 for “Best Tenant Referencing Company” indicates strong industry and customer recognition.

Comparison with Traditional Credit Agencies (e.g., Experian, TransUnion, Equifax)

Focus: Lethq.co.uk offers a more tailored “tenant referencing” service, bundling various checks, whereas the credit agencies primarily offer credit reports that landlords then interpret.
Ease of Use: Lethq.co.uk’s platform is designed specifically for landlords/agents, potentially offering a more streamlined workflow for the full referencing process (e.g., automated email links to tenants). Direct agency portals might require more manual steps.
Integrated Checks: Lethq.co.uk integrates Digital ID Checks, Digital Right to Rent Checks, and AML Checks into their service offerings, which can be more convenient than sourcing these separately from different providers.

Comparison with Other Tenant Referencing Platforms (e.g., Rent Protection Solutions, Goodlord, Vouch)

Business Model: While Lethq.co.uk focuses on pay-per-order, some competitors offer subscription models or require a minimum number of checks, which might be less flexible for infrequent users.
Insurance Integration: Many referencing platforms heavily integrate with or push their own conventional insurance products. Lethq.co.uk is similar in this regard. This is where the ethical distinction becomes crucial.
Comprehensive Suites: Some competitors offer broader property management software suites that include referencing, rent collection, tenancy agreement drafting, etc. Lethq.co.uk seems more specialised in just the referencing and associated checks/insurance.

Ethical Comparison: The Insurance Dilemma

This is the most critical area for distinction.

Lethq.co.uk: Offers conventional Rent Guarantee Insurance and Landlord Insurance, which, as discussed, may contain gharar and riba.
Ethical Alternatives: The ideal “competitor” for ethical users would be a Takaful provider for insurance, or a platform that only provides the permissible referencing and verification services without any impermissible financial products.
- Key Action: For ethical users, the comparison isn’t just about features and price, but about the underlying financial principles. If Lethq.co.uk’s referencing services are used, it must be with the clear understanding and avoidance of their conventional insurance products, instead opting for Takaful alternatives.

In summary, Lethq.co.uk stands out for its speed, flexible pricing model, and commitment to data security for tenant referencing. However, its inclusion of conventional insurance products means that ethically discerning users must approach their service offerings with a clear understanding and intention to select only the permissible verification services, while sourcing Sharia-compliant alternatives for their insurance needs. Hansonroofing.co.uk Review

FAQ

What is Lethq.co.uk?

Lethq.co.uk is a UK-based online service provider that offers tenant referencing, credit checks, and specialist insurance products primarily for landlords, letting agents, housing associations, and tenants.

Is Lethq.co.uk a legitimate company?

Yes, Lethq.co.uk appears to be a legitimate company, founded in 2016, ISO27001 certified for data security, and has won ESTAS awards for “Best Tenant Referencing Company” in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

What services does Lethq.co.uk offer?

Lethq.co.uk offers Tenant Referencing, Rent Guarantee Insurance, Landlord Insurance, Digital ID Checks, Digital Right to Rent Checks, and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) Checks.

How fast are Lethq.co.uk’s referencing checks?

Lethq.co.uk states their express references can be completed in as little as 1 hour, while advanced, guarantor, and company checks usually take 24-48 hours depending on data quality and referee response times.

Is Lethq.co.uk ISO27001 certified?

Yes, Lethq.co.uk is ISO27001 certified, which is the highest possible level of certification for data security management, ensuring client data remains safe. Howesclearance.co.uk Review

How much does Lethq.co.uk cost?

Lethq.co.uk states prices start from £160.00 for services. Setting up a user account is free, and they operate on a pay-per-order basis with no monthly fees for individual users.

Does Lethq.co.uk offer a free trial?

Lethq.co.uk does not offer a time-limited free trial that converts to a paid subscription. Instead, setting up a user account is free, allowing users to explore the platform without charge until they order a service.

How do I pay for services on Lethq.co.uk?

Checks can be paid for on submission online by payment card. Monthly invoice and direct debit accounts are offered to letting agents only, subject to criteria upon request.

What is the ethical concern with Lethq.co.uk’s services?

The ethical concern primarily lies with their conventional insurance products (Rent Guarantee Insurance, Landlord Insurance), which typically involve elements of gharar (uncertainty) and riba (interest), considered impermissible in Islamic finance.

What are ethical alternatives to conventional insurance for landlords?

Ethical alternatives include Takaful (Islamic insurance), setting up a personal contingency fund, or relying on robust tenant vetting to minimise risk. Cjsdefence.co.uk Review

Can I use Lethq.co.uk for only tenant referencing and ID checks?

Yes, users can choose to use Lethq.co.uk solely for their permissible services like tenant referencing, credit checks, Digital ID Checks, Digital Right to Rent Checks, and AML Checks, while opting out of their conventional insurance products.

Who are Lethq.co.uk’s services for?

Lethq.co.uk’s services are for landlords, letting agents, housing associations, and tenants across the UK.

What information is required to reference a tenant with Lethq.co.uk?

Once registered, you only need the name and email address of your prospective tenant. Lethq.co.uk will then email a smart link to the tenant to complete the rest of their application details online.

Should I choose an Express or Advanced reference from Lethq.co.uk?

Lethq.co.uk recommends the Advanced reference for most situations as it provides comprehensive information on a tenant’s creditworthiness and ability to pay rent. The Express check offers faster turnaround but less detail.

How do I contact Lethq.co.uk customer support?

You can contact Lethq.co.uk customer support via email at [email protected] or by phone at 0151 606 5106. Electricplatform.co.uk Review

How do I cancel a monthly invoice or direct debit arrangement with Lethq.co.uk?

Letting agents with monthly invoice or direct debit accounts should contact Lethq.co.uk’s customer service directly via phone or email to formally request termination of their arrangement.

What are some direct competitors to Lethq.co.uk for tenant referencing?

Direct competitors for tenant referencing include major credit agencies like Experian, TransUnion, Equifax, and other specialist landlord referencing platforms such as Rent Protection Solutions.

Does Lethq.co.uk offer services for tenants?

Yes, Lethq.co.uk also offers services for tenants, including insurance options.

Is Lethq.co.uk connected to APCS?

Yes, Lethq.co.uk was developed from the automated streamlined processes of APCS, which is a large registered UK Umbrella Body and provider of DBS checks established in 2002.

What kind of awards has Lethq.co.uk won?

Lethq.co.uk has won “best in sector for best Tenant Referencing Company in the UK” at the ESTAS awards in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Rcup.co.uk Review