Modern day slaves live in rented and bought houses.  People are being sold in order to exploit free or poorly paid labour.  Slaves live on our streets and could be our neighbours.  This is happening throughout the world including the UK.  Therefore, those in the property industry have an additional moral duty to be aware in order to report such practices. Agents and landlords should be vigilant as to this phenomena and report suspicious activity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111. Leydon Letting Agents is a member of ARLA Propertymark Propertymark lists some suspicious signs:

• limited or no references from a previous letting agent;
• uncooperative, vague tenant ;
• pays several months in advance;
• un-explained cash rent payments
• likes short term let of under  two months;
• frequent visitors day and night;
• Excess condoms and massage oil in bins;
• curtains permanently closed;
• variety of cars parked nearby.

Propertymark says the insidious and far-reaching nature of modern day slavery means the signs can be hard to spot. The trade body says: “It’s essential for agents to be able to conduct their duties safely but also practice the utmost due diligence when doing so. There are several tell-tale signs that agents should be aware of when identifying if a property is being used for criminal purposes.” Agents are urged to report any suspicions or concerns via 101. They can also report them anonymously to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111. Property mark's guide follows the publication of the modern slavery statement by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities in December 2021l.