The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Kirkcaldy firm closed but ‘still online’.
Firm can’t be reached amid claims that landlords have not been paid
A Kirkcaldy estate agency hit by a raft of complaints had a closed sign hanging on the door yesterday.
The notice at SJM Mortgages and Estate Agents in Factory Road said: “Sorry we’re closed but you can still find us online.”
Despite repeated attempts, The Courier has been unable to contact the office amid claims that landlords have not received rent payments and the company has not been responding to clients’ calls and emails.
One landlord, who asked to remain anonymous, said no rent had been passed on by the company for two months.
“We’ve had a terrible time at SJM,” said the property owner.
“They’ve not been replying to emails and they’ve not been replying to phonecalls.
“They had a sign up one time saying they were closed for staff training but they don’t have any staff.”
Police Scotland said they had not received any formal complaints.
However, it is understood Fife Council’s Trading Standards department is investigating the firm, which is listed on the Rightmove property website.
According to the Rightmove site: “SJM Mortgage and Estate Agency are proud to emphasise the personal touch they offer to all customers.
“The company’s biggest strength is the genuinely warm, friendly and professional approach that we offer all of our clients.”
Greig Henderson, service manager for the council’s local housing strategy, said the authority had been made aware of concerns from tenants.
Kirkcaldy MSP David Torrance said a number of constituents had been in touch with serious allegations against SJM.
“It has been reported to me that their office in Kirkcaldy often appears to be empty, and there is a lot of speculation as to what exactly is going on,” he said.
“A member of my staff managed to make contact with SJM early on Friday afternoon through their office phone line.
“While there are many rumours and speculation on social media, I am keen not to jump to any conclusions as yet.”
They’ve not been replying to emails and they’ve not been replying to phonecalls. LANDLORD