Martin & Co Reading Caversham reviews

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

If I could give 0 stars I would - I implore everyone to avoid martin&co like the plague. They are the worst estate agents I’ve ever come across. They act nice at first and then as soon as they’ve got your money and signature, they don’t care. Lynn and Sean are the rudest, most inconsiderate and uncaring people. They always have an unprofessional snarky attitude and talk down to you, no matter how understanding you try to be. And their properties are even worse - they tell you the flat is all fine and good to go, then the second you move in it falls apart because it’s all cheaply done and they cut corners for everything, (as confirmed by their own handyman!). The first day I moved in the power cut off and wouldn’t work due to shoddy wiring. All the food in my fridge and freezer was ruined. When I rang them I was told it wasn’t an emergency. They have no sense of urgency when it comes to repairs; another time two of the windows nearly came off because they’d used hinges that weren’t strong enough for the window size. And the windows are the top hung projecting style, so I had to use whatever I could find to tie and secure them to my furniture because otherwise they would have fallen and smashed to the ground outside, as my flat was several floors up. They also never respond to emails. I had to constantly chase for months and months to get even the tiniest jobs done, and the big jobs like fixing a mould issue took over a year for them to actually get someone on it and still it was never properly fixed. No matter how calm and reasonable you are to them, they are always rude and aggressive in return. Phone calls were always the worst. Even if you grey rock them, they will continue to get heated and worked up to the point where they hang up on you. Then when you have to speak to them again, they will actually try to gaslight you and say you were the one with the anger and temper problem, (luckily I always have witnesses for my phone calls and so I knew that wasn’t true!). Lynn and Sean are clearly two very narcissistic people. They will also steal your deposit, coming up with any excuse for not paying it. I wish I had read the reviews before signing with them as everyone says they experienced the same thing - I guess it’s a scam they pull with all their tenants. They regularly inspect the property and say everything is fine and looks good, but then when it’s time to refund the deposit they suddenly invent a bunch of reasons and charges because they think they can get away with it. My last inspection was literally a week before I moved out, with the purpose of making sure everything was all ok. The only feedback I was given was about some dust on the ceilings pipes. I had the flat professionally cleaned, making sure to specify the pipes were dusted, which they did. I provided the invoice as proof and yet they still tried to insist on a professional cleaning fee? The company I used had a guarantee and said they would redo anything that wasn’t satisfactory, but martin&co never got back to me on details and just kept insisting on the cleaning fee, amongst other non-sensical charges - they will honestly try to rob you blind. So in summary: beware and stear clear! And if you have no other choice but to sign with them, then at least make sure to document everything, record your conversations, and take pictures of everything and anything, so you can at least beat them at their own game.

Lydia · 20 September 2025

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

We had problems with Martin & Co throughout our tenancy. Upon moving into our rental property, they had concealed a historic leak in the bathroom (temporarily covering it up, only for the ceiling to partially collapse on the first day of our tenancy). Lynn Masterman (Director) attempted to falsify date and time stamped inventory images thereafter in an effort to cover their tracks. The check-out process was just as problematic, with Martin & Co proposing inordinate deductions to the security deposit held - many of which related to issues we had already reported on numerous occasions, with no remedial work taking place. The company ignored us for many weeks on end and, when sending justified and routine chasers to follow up on the matter, we were faced with extremely unprofessional behaviour from Jordan Bear (Property Manager). It was only when we threatened to pursue the claim with the DPS, in order to recover our deposit monies, that we finally received a substantive response from them. Martin & Co also refused to provide copy invoices for the disproportionate sums charged. You are legally entitled to see these invoices, so request copies of them when going through the check-out process. This is all an intentional delaying tactic to force you to agree to their level of proposed deductions. They ultimately do not want to proceed with the DPS procedure, so don't let this company bully you!

Cheynne · 19 November 2024

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

As a tenant, do not rent through this agent. They're lovely as pie when you're a prospect for them, and promise you that they will be in touch, come round periodically to check up on the flat for any issues etc. As soon as you sign the dotted line for tenancy, you're a piece of dirt to them, they'll take forever to get anything sorted, as simple as having a handyman out to fix a tap took weeks. I raised an issue with some windows which don't serve their purpose and let in a lot of cold air in the winter. This was raised initially in November 2022. Here we are in May 2023 and all that's happened is two quotes have been obtained. I haven't had a response to any emails in three weeks, and I can't call due to working hours. Very disappointing, hopefully Lynn and the team can improve soon.. *Update July 2023* Since the above review, there has been no word from Lynn and the team, so action is being taken with the local council for a HHSRS (Housing Health and Safety Rating System) inspection. Despite numerous emails and contact to Martins since the above review, no correspondence has been received, and no effort has been made to ensure the landlords legal obligations to tenants are met, leaving us no choice but to involve the local council to ensure we will be adequately warm this winter. Last winter we were wrapped in jumpers, coats, blankets, hats and everything, and could still see our breath in the the flat when heating was on full (during the cost of living crisis). No empathy or effort has been shown by Martin's since the issue was initially raised in November 2022 to ensure the matter is resolved quickly (or at all), or that their tenants are in the least bit important to them, and no communication has been shared regarding updates from the landlord on the situation. Poor/non-existent communication, and a complete lack of accountability and professionalism are why I've given the one-star review.

Rob · 7 March 2024

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

Rubbish like any british letting agency. The process is always the same: 1) Advertise an overpriced "ruin" known as room or flat nowadays though edited pictures to make it look better than it is. 2)During the viewing dont forget to lie and conceal important information from the tenant. Remember they dont give a damn about you, they just want your money. 3) After the contract is secured make sure to ask for a couple of months rent in advance as a deposit. Yes people renting nowadays dont want a roof on their head. Deep down they want to vandalize your property. You got us!!! 4) Should any issues arise make sure to take a couple of weeks to reply. In the event that someone insists about a repair in the rented "ruin" make sure to use your super powers! SECTION 21 EVICTION notice. Why? Because you dared to ask for some decency in your "ruin". NOPE. You dont matter my friend. But your pocket does. 5)Make sure to deliver the final blow! Keep the whole deposit by blaming the tenant for everything that is wrong inside the "ruin". After all it your reward for your "hard work". 6) Last step. While the tenant is trying to move out make sure to harass them and stress them as much as possible. Once they are out of the "ruin" re- advertise the "ruin" BUT dont forget to list at least 200£ more expensive. After all the more its "value" increases so do the chances for it to collapse. BRAVO!

AK · 20 September 2025

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I rented a property via Martin & Co a few years ago and have since moved to a different location. However, I recently got in touch asking for a landlord / agency reference to rent a new property and Martin & Co ensured that this was completed in a timely manner. There was some back and forth as I had to gather information from the new agency but the Martin and Co team were nothing less than professional and patient as I came back to them with the relevant information. I want to also acknowledge Molly for her excellent customer service and ensuring that the reference was completed in time. She was always friendly and polite on the phone when we spoke. Very positive experience with Martin & Co!

Rebeca · 13 April 2023

★★★★★ 1/5

Facebook

If I could give 0 stars I would - I implore everyone to avoid martin&co like the plague if you can because they are the worst estate agents I’ve ever come across. They act nice at first and then as soon as they’ve got your money and signature, they don’t care. Lynn and Sean were the rudest most inconsiderate people, both of them have huge attitude problems, and talk to you like you’re dirt on your shoe. They never respond to emails, I had to constantly chase for months and months to get even the tiniest jobs done, and the big jobs like fixing a mould issue took over a year for them to actually get someone on it and still it was never properly fixed. They regularly inspect the property and say everything is fine, and then turn around at the end and try to take your whole deposit because they know they can get away with it. I wish I had read the reviews before signing with them as there are tonnes of people saying the same things, so it’s obviously an ongoing scheme they pull with all their tenants, they will rob you blind.So in summary: beware and stear clear! And if you have no choice, then at least make sure to document everything, record conversations, and take pictures of everything, so you can at least beat them at their own game.

Lydia · 7 July 2022

★★★★★ 1/5

Trustpilot

Avoid at all costs!

If I could give 0 stars I would - I implore everyone to avoid martin&co like the plague if you can because they are the worst estate agents I’ve ever come across. They act nice at first and then as soon as they’ve got your money and signature, they don’t care. Lynn and Sean were the rudest most inconsiderate people, both of them have huge attitude problems, and talk to you like you’re dirt on your shoe.

Lydia · 7 July 2022

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

I’ve had an extremely disappointing experience with Martin & Co. in Caversham. I found their services to be unreliable and inefficient, falling far short of what was promised and paid for. Communication has been poor, with delays and a lack of transparency in addressing issues. Tasks that were supposed to be handled professionally were either ignored or executed ineffectively, leaving me to resolve problems myself. Overall, I feel the service lacked honesty and reliability, which is unacceptable for a professional property management agency. I cannot recommend their services based on my experience.

Rebecca · 19 November 2024

★★★★★ 2/5

Google

We weren't pleased about our rental situation with Martin & Co and feel like they could make improvements to their service. Whilst their team were friendly when we managed to get through to them, it felt like most of their service was reactive - and that a lot of issues were not sorted in a timely manner, if not neglected. When we tried calling them, we very often were unable to get through, and we were often told their office was closed despite what they had advertised about their opening times. When we tried to get our deposit back it felt like we had to keep enquiring about this with little communication, and we were informed they were considering deductions, although we had previously sent them evidence about the issues months previously. It didn't always feel like they managed information properly or that correspondence was dealt with.

James · 19 November 2024

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Having rented for about six years in Reading, I have often been disappointed with various estate agents that I have used. My luck however changed when I dealt with Martin and Co Caversham. Throughout my tenancy, they have been extremely professional, courteous and warm. It feels like dealing with a family business. Sean was particularly helpful, going above and beyond expectations to secure the place we wanted to live. Mica has also been wonderful, friendly and deals with any arising issue most efficiently. We are relocating so unfortunately we have to end our tenancy, but I have and would continue to recommend Martin and Co.

Karen · 4 May 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Having rented for about six years in Reading, I have often been disappointed with various estate agents that I have used. My luck however changed when I dealt with Martin and Co Caversham. Throughout my tenancy, they have been extremely professional, courteous and warm. It feels like dealing with a family business. Sean was particularly helpful, going above and beyond expectations to secure the place we wanted to live. Mica has also been wonderful, friendly and deals with any arising issue most efficiently. We are relocating so unfortunately we have to end our tenancy, but I have and would continue to recommend Martin and Co.

Karen · 20 March 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I used Martin & Co to find a tenant and from start to finish they provided an excellent service. I am still continuing to use them for the renewals and again, everything is just being taken care off which helps me no end! Can't recommend Sean and his team enough! They are also very competitive price wise so its a double win and a complete no brainer - USE THEM!

Pippa · 5 July 2019

★★★★★ 5/5

Facebook

Amazing customer service, very professional. After getting locked out of my house on my first day, even though it was out of hours, Mica came to let me back in! Sean was very flexible, and even picked me up to drive me to viewings. Both Sean and Mica are exceptional! That says it all, no other agency I have rented a property with has made me feel like I come first.

Lucinda · 23 February 2017

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

I would give a minus rating if possible, absolutely disgusting service even their own maintenance team slate them as an agent. House riddled with mould and they kept £1700 of my deposit after 6 years of renting to clean the mould and so called repairs. Had no bathroom mirror for 18 months they were supposed to replace it. Worst estate agents in Berkshire

Warren · 19 November 2024

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Totally satisfied with the service of Martin & Co. The team is really helpful and work regarding the needs of their customers. Especially Sean is a great asset for the team responding to all our queries and needs, working with family friendly approach from the very beginning. Thank you !!!

Georgios · 13 April 2022

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I have rented quite a few properties over the years in Reading - Martin & Co in Caversham are the best estate agents I have rented with to date. Everything is streamlined including documentation, low agency fees, excellent response times and great support in terms of maintenance. The staff are very personable and friendly. It has been a pleasure. I highly recommend this agency.

A · 25 September 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I have rented quite a few properties over the years in Reading - Martin & Co in Caversham are the best estate agents I have rented with to date. Everything is streamlined including documentation, low agency fees, excellent response times and great support in terms of maintenance. The staff are very personable and friendly. It has been a pleasure. I highly recommend this agency.

Ali · 5 July 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

The team at Martin & Co have been very friendly and helpful. They have done an excellent job of assisting myself and my brother in the process of renting a new apartment. Special shout out to Ellie and Shawn for all of their help and guidance during this process.PositiveResponsiveness, Professionalism

Brandon · 19 March 2022

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Thanks Sean for his professional and quick actions! Secure a rent is very difficult nowadays, luckily I find the good agent to support me :)

CW · 7 March 2024

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

I was very pleased with the way Lynn helped me with the situation while I was vacating the apartment. Even though they were not officially responsible, Lynn intervened to enable smooth handover. Would recommend Martin & Co if you are looking for a new place.

Sumit · 13 April 2022

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Excellent, helpful service throughout the whole process of renting a property. Friendly initial phone call, viewing arranged at late notice the same day and then experienced guidance through the application process, taking time to explain things that were new to me as a first time private tenant. Thank you so much Sean and team.

Joe · 13 April 2020

★★★★★ 5/5

Facebook

I have been with Martin & Co since December and they have been fantastic! I have had some initial problems with the property but each time things have been sorted sometimes the same day. So far they have been a very reactive, honest and good agency to work with. Special mention to Mica who is just fab!

Ben · 7 January 2017

★★★★★ 5/5

Google

Sean was very when he visited our property for a valuation. He was thorough regarding all information needed and explained everything in a concise and simple manner as this was my first time having to do this.

Dora · 13 April 2022

★★★★★ 1/5

Google

Absolutely rubbish estate agents had the house rented for 6 years without any repairs done to the house and in the end minuses £500 from my deposit for the repairs they should have done. I advise any one who's looking to rent from these fools not to bother please find a different estate agent.

Shiron · 9 August 2024