1

I had an extremely disappointing and distressing experience with Ralph James while trying to rent a property at Helena House, Royal Earlswood, ahead of starting my new job at East Surrey Hospital.<br>I viewed the property with an agent named Hugo Cina. Following the viewing, I received what appeared to be legitimate emails containing the tenancy agreement and payment instructions. During the process, I was told that iI needed to pay the 5 weeks rent as deposit at first, and then told to pay 2 weeks rent as deposit for them to send me the contract letter. When I questioned why I was being asked to pay more than the usual holding deposit- which is one week's rent, I was encouraged to make the payment quickly so that the tenancy could proceed.<br>I subsequently received bank account details that I was told belonged to the landlord and, relying on those instructions and the accompanying telephone conversations, transferred £346. I have retained copies of the emails, call records and payment confirmation.<br>The following day, when I contacted the agency, I was informed by a senior member of staff, Sam, that their email system had been compromised. Since then, despite numerous phone calls and emails to both Sam and the Head of Lettings, Katie, I have received no meaningful response or assistance regarding the money I lost.<br>I have now submitted a formal police report regarding the suspected fraud. The lack of communication and support from the agency after being informed of the incident has been extremely disappointing.<br>Whether the payment resulted from a compromise of their systems or another cause is something for the relevant authorities to investigate. However, as a prospective tenant, I acted entirely in good faith, relying on communications that appeared to come directly from the agency.<br>Based on my experience, I cannot recommend using this agency. I hope they improve their security, communication and support for customers who find themselves in situations like mine.<br><br>I would not recommend their services as they are not secure, professional and aren't helpful at all.... Read more
27th Jun 2026 (8 days ago)