Every review we hold for the Birmingham office, from every platform, shown as written. First names only.
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleJames Laurence is an exceptional letting agency, and I wholeheartedly recommend their services. Navigating property management can often be overwhelming, but they have turned it into an effortless experience. A special mention goes to Charlotte Blount, whose brilliance, patience, and professionalism have been truly remarkable. Her unwavering support throughout the process has not only eased our concerns but also exemplified what outstanding customer service should be. My partner and I are incredibly grateful to Charlotte and the entire team for their stellar support. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with James Laurence, knowing we are in the best hands possible.
Junior · 19 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you, Junior!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleI'm writing this review on the basis of our recent experience of taking apartment on rent through James Laurence which is nothing but pathetic.
Their maintenance team is full of incapable staffs who don't know how to solve the issue instead give one or another excuses every other day.
Our dishwasher was faulty which had internal leakage and irreparable confirmed by their own contractor. And even after reported 17 days ago, they have not fixed or replaced it so far and there is no ETA either.
Think twice before taking rental apartment through James Laurence 👎
Huma · 15 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Dear Huma,
Many thanks for your review. In relation to your reported maintenance (faulty dishwasher) as our Senior Property Manager & Director liaised with you, this was dealt with proactively without delay. Unfortunately, we cannot account for Amazon delaying the install. On the day of this 1 Star review, following the report raised at circa. 09:20 a.m. from yourself, we instructed our appliance engineer to attend on the same day at 09:25 a.m..
As requested, we followed up twice, and in which that is highly unusual as a dishwasher is classed as a luxury item nor is the same deemed an emergency. We must note for the transparency of the review we will not allow threats to be made to our staff in any form or allow you to speak with our staff in the manner which has been done over the telephone.
Regards,
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleI have known James Laurence Estate Agents at Birmingham City Centre since 6 years now. They helped me purchase a property in October 2018 as a first time buyer and I cannot say enough about their professionalism in public dealing. Now I have seeked assistance again in renting out the same property and have come accross the same if not higher standards of competence. Everyone in this agency is skillful, courteous and highly experienced in dealing with any given situation which may arrise. They go an extra mile to ensure things are done properly. Many thanks to the two Charlotte(s), Jade, Daniella, Kitty, Lindsay and Henry - a few amongst many other friendly people I have interacted with so far at James Laurence. Keep up the good work!
Kuljyot · 15 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you, Kuljyot!
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleJames Lawrence lettings are definitely amongst the most professional and trustworthy agents I have ever encountered! I cannot emphasise enough how good a job they did and handed the property to us exactly as promised. Most notable was Henry Crane who demonstrated an excellent client service making our move all the more smooth!! On numerous occasions he went out of his way to ensure that all our needs were met, including waiting for us well after business hours on a Saturday of a bank holiday weekend! It was truly a pleasure doing business with James Lawrence, and I would definitely recommend them to anyone.
Thanks Henry :)
Charalambos · 11 June 2018
Agent replied · 11 June 2024
Thanks for the nice words, great to work with you
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleAmazing experience with property agency James Laurence. It was an easy and comfortable process for renting the property, I am amazed to be honest and thanku u Jade whitehouse , Charlotte and Anita Chow so much for making our renting process quick ,convenient and transparent always being there to communicate and support us through. The most surprising part for me was they gave us 2 keys to the apartment which we hadn’t been given from our previous agency. A big thankx from bottom of my heart to Jade whitehouse, Charlotte Blount and the James Laurence team 👍🏻
Soorya · 8 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you, Soorya!
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleIt was a delight working with James Laurence Estate Agents. The process was pretty smooth and Kitti was super helpful and flexible with my queries while I was moving.
Joseph · 10 November 2024
Agent replied · 10 December 2024
Thank you, Joseph!!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleIt is obvious that the quality of the estate agent has fallen through since 2019 when we first started renting with them. Each contract renewal you will be met by a 10% increase in rent which is absolutely scummy from the parties involved.
After moving out of the property, they attempted to claim a significant portion of our deposit without even providing a detailed quotation list beforehand. This lack of transparency is completely unacceptable and feels intentionally predatory.
When we finally received their so-called "observations report," it was clear that they did not account for normal wear and tear, instead trying to pin minor issues on us. For instance, they listed the condition of the mattress as "good" in the initial inventory, but it was actually used and far from the condition they described. They also tried to charge excessive amounts for minor silicone repairs without providing any proof of the quotations.
Overall, their approach was unprofessional and dishonest. I strongly advise others to be cautious when dealing with this agency, as they seem more interested in conning ex-tenants than in conducting fair and transparent assessments.
edit: Thank you for your response, Henry. While I appreciate your input, it's worth noting that these concerns have been consistently mentioned in your Google reviews over the past year and ramping up. This pattern suggests that the issues might be more than just isolated incidents. Addressing these concerns thoughtfully would be more constructive than responding defensively.
Andrei · 22 September 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you for your review.
Please note that as an agent working on behalf of a landlord, we carry out the request of the landlord when making a claim against a deposit.
When a tenancy ends, we are completely transparent in our actions and supply a copy of the check out report to both the landlord and tenant. When making deductions it is our standard procedure to put the claim through on the DPS system and provide a breakdown later. The check out report is carried out by a third-party company.
Although you did not agree with the contents of the report or level of deductions requested, your offer was put to your landlord, and your offer agreed and actioned.
The charges put forward for repair were our contractors standard charge for the nature of work required.
Once deductions are actioned via DPS, you can of course liaise with ourselves and if an agreement cannot be reached you have the right to dispute via the DPS.
Based on the above we do not agree with your comments regarding unprofessionalism and dishonesty.
Regards,
Henry Crane
Associate Director
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleCharlotte was really helpful and answered any questions that I have in detail. Kept me updated on the progress and managed to look for a tenant in a timely manner. I would recommend James Laurence to anyone looking to rent or rent out property.
Johnny · 10 February 2024
Agent replied · 11 June 2024
Thank you, Johnny!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleWorst agency ever, at the end of tenancy agreement they try to rip you off by adding some ridiculous charges. Also any reports about faults they just ignore. Quite rude staff.
Marcin · 16 March 2026
Agent replied · 16 April 2026
We take all feedback seriously; however, we have no record of any tenancy or client matching this name. The details described do not correspond with any of our managed properties or service history, which raises concerns that this review may be malicious or inaccurate.
Our team prides itself on transparency, responsive communication, and fair handling of all maintenance and deposit matters in accordance with the DPS (Deposit Protection Service) guidelines. We encourage the reviewer to contact our office directly at 0121 604 4060 so that we can verify their tenancy and address any genuine concerns appropriately.
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleCharlotte Blount was first contact with James Laurence EA and was impressed - timely, efficient, had/got answers to all questions. Great service from Daniella and Jade too. Very good experience.
Bernel · 8 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you, Bernel!
★★★★★ 4/5
TrustpilotSONIA IS A VERY GOOD REPRESENTATIVE OF JAMES LAURENCE ESTATE AGENT
I am new in the country and I was able to secure an apartment through James Laurence agency because I was transparent about my situation from the get go. Hence they were able to help.
Adejoke · 1 February 2026
Agent replied · 6 June 2026
Thank you, Adejoke!
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleJames Laurence Estate Agents have always provided an excellent service throughout my interactions with them. In particular, Anita in property management has always been communicative, professional and helpful (thanks Anita!).
Jack · 24 September 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you for your review!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotAmazing hospitality from Amelia
Amazing hospitality from Amelia, she's the sweetest when it comes towards convincing as a sales person.
100% recommended.
Mohak · 13 June 2026
Agent replied · 25 September 2026
Thank you, Mohak!
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleI have recently switched my management company after years as the service has declined rapidly - I came across James Laurence who have been great from the moment I put my enquiry in to let my property! In particular I have been working closely with Jade and she has been great, always keeps me in the loop and really cares about propounding me with a great service! Thank you - I am looking forward to working with you guys for the foreseeable!
Kelly · 13 August 2024
Agent replied · 27 August 2024
Thank you, Kelly
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleI cannot thank the lettings team enough at James Laurence, Birmingham City Centre Branch.
As a relocation consultant I work to tight time frames and a prompt response is always welcomed.
The team were so proactive in helping secure a tenancy for my client.
Particular mention to Daniella, Charlotte B, Jade and Kitti. Thank you so much for your help. It is really appreciated.
I will be happy to work with you in the future. 👌😊👍👏
Givette · 15 October 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you, Givette!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleBeing a very recent tenant through James Laurence, our experience in taking a flat on rent is nothing, but disappointing. The flat we moved in was not tidy as opposed to the claim, infact inventory report suggested the same evidence. It was with debris and filth.
Moreover when we reported on the very first thing noticed after move in, the post letting support was sheer frustrating without any help on ground. Their letting agents Kitti and Charlotte looked very inexperienced and incompetent while dealing with such sensitive health hazard instead advised us to clean ourselves to suppress the matter. Apparently we had to report to local council for kids health and safety hazard to invenue into.
I'm attaching few snaps to depict horrible experience my family especially kids gone through.
James Laurence should enhance post letting support instead of focusing on selling unwanted property damage insurance (which ofcourse comes with additional hidden costs) and hire experienced people, if they want to remain good brand in ever since competitve real estate market.
Khalid · 6 August 2024
Agent replied · 27 August 2024
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We acknowledge your feedback and have reviewed the situation.
I understand your frustration regarding the deceased pigeon on the balcony.
As discussed with yourself directly, prior to you moving in, and from what you can see on your inventory, there was no deceased pigeon.
When bringing up this matter after you moved into the property, a staff member advised you to kindly remove the bird from the balcony, and also advised you on an idea to get a net installed, should you require further action to stop any pigeons from landing on your balcony.
You do unfortunately have an apartment in Birmingham City Centre, where pigeons are highly common. There is nothing we can do about this.
Furthermore, we then agreed to arrange a contractor to attend to do this for you and we have had conformation that this has been removed.
We regret that this experience has caused you frustration but can assure you pigeons landing on your balcony are perfectly normal and not harmful to you or your children.
We do note whilst corresponding over the phone on this matter, that language used towards our staff, was less than desirable. We would ask that this behaviour is refrained from, in the future.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
Kind Regards,
Henry Crane
Associate Director
James Laurence Estate Agents
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotGreat experience
Very easy to contact, punctual, friendly, answered any questions we had.
Helpful with sending / finding properties that fit our brief
Eshan · 15 May 2026
Agent replied · 6 June 2026
Thank you, Eshan!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleIt took 17 weeks to get our deposit back … We lived in a property managed by this agency for many years. During that time we did not have many issues and whenever something came up the landlord dealt with it directly rather than through the …
C · 16 September 2025
Agent replied · 10 September 2025
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We are sorry to hear that you found the deposit return process frustrating. … More
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleI would say the highlight of using James Laurence Estate Agents, was indeed the letting agent who handled my case. Riegan Nash, I can honestly say was one of the best agents I met through my whole moving process. She was quick, efficient, welcoming and communicated well back and forth about all the information throughout. Honestly need more people like her in this field of work. Will definitely ask for her in the near future.
Momina · 24 September 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you for your review!
★★★★★ 1/5
GoogleRe: Regarding the number of issues reported, you are perfectly aware that most issues were reported directly to our property manager. If the property manager was not trained to log the issues into your system, this is once again on you. Indeed, you are incorrect. In 26 months we reported 8 minor problems (broken table, broken extractor hood, broken heater, broken washing machine, dripping sink pipes, dripping kitchen tap, damaged vinyl floor, broken kickboard) and 3 major ones (broken boiler, holes in the wall from which mice entered, leaky skylights); of these, only 3 minor ones were resolved in a "timely" manner. For 4 others it took between 2 to 4 months, and the remaining 4 (of which 2 major ones) were never addressed. You should have plenty of emails proving it.
You are also incorrect about the water cylinder. We reported an initial leak for which a contractor was called, but nothing could be done other than tightening a bolt, as a new piece was needed. The piece was never approved, as confirmed to us by the contractor. Not long after, it started leaking from somewhere else (as well expected), until the situation escalated dramatically.
Lastly, the skylights are a problem that the landlord should have addressed immediately, even just temporarily, as the Council confirmed. Instead, we were left for 6 months with leaking windows and unable to use the living room, in a flat that became so cold that the temperature dropped below 10 °C on more than one occasion. The fact that you were regularly chasing the block management then is good to know; unfortunately, we never received a single update from you on the matter.
We appreciate that you had no power on these issues; however, the fact that, even now, you refuse to acknowledge that you could have acted with more regard toward us, is in itself the problem. All the best.
Original:
Sadly, the worst experience in years of renting. Admittedly we were rather unlucky, renting a duplex flat in the city centre in seemingly good condition but with endless problems in reality, and a landlord not remotely interested in maintaining his own property (coincidentally now on sale). In just over two years we experienced far too many minor problems (most of which from day 1), and at least 3 major ones (two of which were never resolved), all coming down to poor maintenance over the years.
We don't hold James Laurence responsible for this, as maintenance is ultimately the landlord's responsibility. However, the incompetency shown is entirely on them. Communication was incredibly stressful, with us constantly having to chase them for the simplest update. On different occasions then, we felt almost intentionally misled. This was especially evident when we opened a misrepair case with the Council after being ignored for months on major issues reported, including skylight windows leaking into the living room in full winter; a problem that in almost 6 months was never resolved.
In addition, they never seemed to understand the severity of the issues or the stress and disruption they caused us. For example (one of many), when we reported that the boiler upstairs - over 30 years old - had broken and started leaking through to the downstairs kitchen, it was only when the volume of water dripping reached litres per hour, causing us a sleepless night emptying buckets and a day off work, that a contractor was called as a matter of urgency. Two months had passed in the meanwhile, and this is simply unacceptable.
Finally, when we left, they tried to deduct £120 from our deposit in the most unprofessional way, without even informing us. As a side note, in over 7 years of renting we never had a single pound deducted from our deposit, nor had we had to start a dispute.
So no, we wouldn't recommend them to anyone thinking of renting. Our experience as tenants was beyond stressful, and for an agency that "prides itself on customer service", they were shockingly unprofessional, unhelpful and unsympathetic on all levels, and there is absolutely no justification for how badly our situation was handled.
Fernanda · 28 June 2024
Agent replied · 27 August 2024
Firstly, thank you for your review, we take all feedback on board and would like to address the issues you experienced.
Having reviewed our system, I can see that six issues were reported during your 26-month tenancy, and most were dealt with in a timely manner.
I see that two main issues occurred, one being a leak from the hot water cylinder, which I can see was replaced. Unfortunately, a further leak occurred relating to this, which was then rectified by the contractor. Regarding the issue reported in December 2023, as you are aware this was an issue that had to be dealt with by the block management company, as the issue was demised to the building and not the apartment. Despite our chasing on a regular basis, we did not receive timely responses from the block management company, and I can therefore see that this may have caused you some concern. I can however confirm that we did all we could regarding the leak that occurred and asked the block management company whether they could provide a temporary repair and instal a dehumidifier. Unfortunately, when an issue is demised to the block, we are at the mercy of the managing agent.
Kind Regards,
Lindsay Emmison (Senior Property Manager) & Henry Crane (Associate Director)
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleMoving to a new city can be daunting, but Reece and the team at James Lawrence went above and beyond to help make the process easy. We had limited time in the city and Reece seamlessly organised a wonderful day of viewings and looked after us not only on the day, but for weeks prior and after. We highly recommend James Laurence!PositiveResponsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value
R&P · 10 June 2021
Agent replied · 11 June 2024
Pleased you had a good experience, thanks for your comments
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotTrusted agents !!!
Thank you to Karan, Tom & Henry for making my experience buying my first place smooth and simple. They went above and beyond to accommodate my needs at the time and worked around my schedule.
Jamie-Lee · 22 July 2025
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleWe had an excellent experience with James Laurence - they made moving in so easy and Kelly was especially helpful and left no stone unturned in helping us trying to find a place to rent!
I would really recommend anyone renting in Birmingham to use James Laurence as they are definitely the best agency I have come across.
Sam · 10 June 2022
Agent replied · 11 June 2024
Thanks Sam!
★★★★★ 5/5
GoogleCurrently renting a property in Birmingham through James Lawrence estate agents. Very impressed with their services so far. Our handling agent Melissa has been especially helpful with arranging the viewings and ensuring a smooth transition during the Coronavirus lockdown in November! Their response time is also very good, getting back to your queries and requests in a matter of hours rather than days!PositiveResponsiveness, Professionalism
Alex · 10 June 2021
Agent replied · 11 June 2024
great to hear, thanks Alex
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