Every review we hold for the Longbenton office, from every platform, shown as written. First names only.
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotHold deposit enforcement unconscionable
I was required, before even given the opportunity to view the property 85 Shrewsbury Close, to pay Simple Life Homes a ‘holding deposit’ for the supposed property. They also stated if certain multiple conditions weren’t met, one of them being that: “You have failed to take reasonable steps to enter in the tenancy” - which basically means if you opt to not take up the rental - that I would lose £50 + VAT plus £25 + VAT per person applying for the rental, from the holding deposit. That's a £120.00 for not deciding to rent from them!!!!As I said, this fee/payment is demanded as payment Before I’ve even had to option of viewing the property. When I didn’t pay immediately, they sent me an email informing me that my application for this property has forthwith been cancelled..Even with the below explanation, the process is clearly flawed because this property had been rented before, which makes pictures of another 'ideal' property as advertisement rather irrelevant, unless the same quality is gauranteed, or you holding fee back..In the end there are too many clauses/loopholes for keeping the holding deposit and not enough protecting the client's interest - maybe someone else doesn't mind losing £120 - but most people would agree that the process is akin to unconscionable business practice and should not be supported. .I feel well within my rights to warn those people.
Sarge · 19 April 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hello,Thank you for your feedback.We'd like to confirm that we are legally unable to make existing residents grant access to their properties for viewings until they vacate the property, therefore in this situation we were unable to conduct a viewing at that moment in time, however everyone is offered the opportunity to view a property before their move in date.There is no obligation for a resident to put down a holding deposit before they view, however, as demand is high for our homes, most people are willing to put down a holding deposit and proceed with the application process in advance in order to secure their property from the market. As we operate on a first come first served basis, we therefore can't guarantee a property will still be available if an interested party wanted to hold off on their application until such a date. Please note that our holding deposit links remain valid for 24 hours before expiring, during this time no-one else can put down a holding deposit for the same property. This is why you will have seen your application expire automatically. We apologise if this process wasn't explained to you.We appreciate that some people do not feel comfortable reserving off-plan, so we assist with images of the property, full measurements and where possible we provide a video walkthrough. If the property doesn't meet with their expectations when they are able to view a property and if this is reasonable, we offer a refund on the holding deposit. Deposits are only held should an applicant pull out through no fault of our own, or if they fail referencing due to known circumstances that would affect their referencing criteria.We're sorry that our processes don't meet with your satisfaction but we can assure you that they are typical of the build to rent market.
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotThanks so much Jack Meeks help me so…
Thanks so much Jack Meeks help me so much trough the process very professional I rang him so many times in one day always ready for help me ,thanks so much absolutely Top !
Mr · 8 March 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your wonderful feedback!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotSimple Life have been one of the best…
Simple Life have been one of the best management agencies I’ve come across - they made the tenancy process so easy and have been very accommodating,always quick to respond.Was also really nice that they provided each tenant with a nice “welcome home” package with necessities - was a lovely touch.Highly recommended.Thank you to James Hayes and the team for the great service!
A · 26 April 2021
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hello, thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. We're so pleased that we have been able to give you a brilliant experience so far and we really value your positive feedback - thank you or sharing!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotJUNIOR
I have worked with simple life for years and i can honestly say Junior is one of the best staff members i have came across. So efficient and friendly that he makes my job easier so that is good in my book :)Dan (APM)
Daniel · 30 June 2023
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
That's great to hear! Thank you Daniel!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotHuge gratitude to Abdul Tahir
Huge gratitude to Abdul Tahir. We weren’t familiar with the process as it is quite new to us but we found an apartment we loved and he explained everything thoroughly. We just reserved the property this afternoon thanks to Tahir’s help. Service has been impeccable from the second we got into contact him him! 5 Stars always!
Onesime22 · 29 January 2022
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
What wonderful feedback! Thank you! We will make sure Abdul sees a copy of your review.
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotSHOCKING - FAR FROM 'SIMPLE'LIFE.
I regret leaving glowing feedback for this company previously. In fairness, our last property with them we had no faults.Our current property, we had noted a mountain of issues as soon as we had the keys. The garden was/is an absolute wreck, massive mud patch where grass should be. Smashed lightbulbs imbedded into the ground. Waste bins were full to the brim. Outside tap has never worked, but the worst of all is the horrible mold infestation. Every ceiling upstairs has mold. EVERY WINDOW/DOOR FRAME has mold. Cupboards downstairs contain mold. We have been requesting this to repairs since October/November, and still the only feedback you get is 'This is under review'. They know my wife is pregnant and have two very young children, who have since developed horrible/nasty coughs (we've also been informed of other properties in the same area with the same issue, and their kids have also started to develop coughs - presumably due to the mold) and they still drag their heels. Its disgusting how little they seem to care when we pay a fortune every month. They have the cheek to chase me on the 28th of the month for my rental payment, when since renting from June 2022 I have never missed a payment and always send payment on time once the wages come have come in between the 23rd-31st of each month. Funnily enough, now I am complaining is when this has started to be an issue.
Josh · 2 April 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Josh, We're so pleased you're enjoying your time with Simple Life. We will be sure to pass your thanks on to Hannah!EDIT: Hi Josh, we're sad to see that you have since updated your positive review and you're not happy with the service provided to you. You will see we have sent you a find reviewer request so we are able to identify you and your tenancy in order to be in a position to help you further. Unfortunately we haven't heard back from you. If you could contact us on complaints@simplelifehomes.com, we will be able to investigate all the issues you have outlined.
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotNo response to issues and service is terrible
Well what can I say!!! Rent increases they are very quick to get in touch. When your garden is flooding and can’t be accessed they don’t want to know we get told it’s being investigated and get the same email week after week!! Then when I respond they then cut all contact. The service is an absolute joke!! They never call back and that’s when they actually bother to answer the phone. They simply don’t care after over 7 months still no resolution and the service is diabolical
Gavin · 30 March 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Gavin,Thank you for responding to our find reviewer request.We’re very sorry for the delay in repairs to your garden. We have looked in to the maintenance log for this and we can see that this is sat waiting for a response from the developer. Upon inspection of the garden, we’re not happy that the housebuilder has adhered to the requirements appropriately to begin with, so we’re having to escalate this with them which is why we have experienced some delays in getting this resolved. We’re really sorry for any inconvenience caused and for the lack of communication and updates from ourselves. A member of the team will be calling you today to run through next steps and to apologise on behalf of Simple Life.
★★★★★ 3/5
TrustpilotRepairs take ages
Update- issues still outstanding- no surprise. The most we get is an appointment confirmation from a contractor that is a no show and zero communication regarding this from Simple life until I nag them for a response. It’s been 10 weeks since I reported a roof tile that broke off during a storm in Dec. This tile fell and landed on our car bonnet and we had to pay to fix the dent so we have been avoiding parking completely on our drive until the roof is inspected and fixed. Our garden fencing is also leaning since the posts were not concreted in. Neither of these issues have been fixed nor have I been given any useful updates on progress. I emailed the head of maintenance and I was told these issues would be expedited but I followed up and got no response and I see absolutely no progress on fixflo. Our rent goes up by £70 next month but we receive this kind of service for an issue that causes damage to our personal property. Unacceptable. And before simple life comment that the increase is in line with the current market rate, we understand and are fine with the increase but when we pay £915 pm currently and £985 from next month we expect repairs, as the landlords responsibility, to be done within a reasonable timeframe which is not 10 weeks. Customer service of Simple Life has always been poor and we have rented from them since 2021.
Sydney · 28 March 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Sydney,Thank you for raising your complaint with us.We’re sorry that things are taking longer than anticipated to fix. We have looked at the notes logged against these items and can see that we have been struggling to get a contractor for the chipped tile. We are now waiting for a contractor to supply a quote so as soon as we have this, we should be ready to arrange a date with you. A quote has been received and approved for the fence panel fix and we have asked the team to ensure you get an update imminently. We’re sorry for any inconvenience this has caused. We can assure you that the team has been chasing these jobs through in the background.
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotUltimate Review
Jack was very nice and helpful each time i spoked to him, so far the whole process has been easy and i know i can email for help or with any worries !
Piotr · 1 March 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your wonderful star rating Piotr!
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotThere has serious water leak problem…
There has serious water leak problem that making the bedroom is unable to live and damaged my bed and other personal goods in the property at Walkden Manchester. This was just occurred after I moved in the rental property provided by simple life home in 1 week, obviously it is a pre existing condition and the company is hiding the issue and no related information provided in the inventory report. After the issue occurred, their maintenance team refused to arrange for another property to move and just asking me to stay away from the bed to avoid the waterfall comes from the roof. Obviously I don’t have extra space to move the bed and the water leak will keep damaging my belongings. Their CS takes no action on that except asking me to stay away from my own bedroom.
GFC · 19 March 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hello,Thank you for providing identifiable information via our find reviewer request, allowing us to be able to identify you. We are aware of the leak at your property. This was reported on Tuesday with a plumber attending the same day. The following day a roofer attended to fix the issue. We can see the team was in continual contact with you to get this resolved asap and to give you updates throughout the process. We’re pleased to see that as far as we are aware, the issue has been resolved and we are waiting for you to confirm you have experienced no further leaking. As soon as the area has dried the remedial works will take place.We can confirm that as the leak was isolated to one room, and as you have confirmed you have a spare bedroom in the property, the property was habitable during the 48 hours that this issue occurred. We're sorry for any inconvenience this has caused you, but hopefully you can appreciate that this issue was unforeseen and the team reacted extremely quickly to get things resolved for you. Please note, that we make it very clear in our communications that whilst we insure the building, residents are required to insure their contents. Should any damage have been caused to any belongings, you should contact your contents insurance company.
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotJack was fantastic throughout the…
Jack was fantastic throughout the process. During what is always a stressful time moving, Jack was always quick to reply and happy to help. Had a great experience 👍🏻
Bradley · 17 May 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your wonderful review Bradley! We will make sure Jack gets a copy of your lovely feedback!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotGreat so far!!
Finally moved into our new simple life home. The service we received from our agent Tahir was top draw from start to finish. Could not be more pleased with how easy he made the whole process for us with our move in. Will highly recommend to others. Thank you Tahir and Simple life!
David · 24 June 2022
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
We're delighted to hear it! Thank you so much for sharing David!
★★★★★ 2/5
TrustpilotNo communication at all!!
The lack of communication of this company is an absolute madness you can call them 50 times and they won’t answer you can email them and they won’t reply I’ve made 3 enquiries already about an apartment and it’s got to a point that I had to come here and write a review see if they are actually going to reply and I am still waiting for someone to contact me
Frendy · 20 August 2024
Agent replied · 24 August 2024
Hi Frendy,Thank you for getting in touch. Following your review, we have searched all our lettings inboxes and cannot find any email from the email you have stipulated. Please could you drop us an email to slmarketing@simplelifehomes.com to confirm which development you are enquiring about, and the email and phone number you are using so that we can investigate this.
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotEmpty Promises and Disappointing…
Empty Promises and Disappointing Resolutions! I recently moved in with my partner to a new 3 bed home and I'm really disappointed in the moving in process so far. Firstly we were given the the opportunity to view the house about 1.5 weeks before moving in all was as expected apart from the carpet on the stairs, landing and 1st floor bedrooms this was frayed and ripped in numerous places. As well as this the back door glass had been badly damaged by scratches on the outside of the window all signs of the previous tenant having maybe a cat or dog living at the property. I put these issue forward to the agent we where conversing with about the property and she said it had been forwarded onto her colleagues to be investigated. I pushed for some answers a couple days later and asked if she could confirm that anything was going to be done and by what date it would be completed as the carpet covers a large area of the house we wanted to be sure it was being taken care of before we moved in. She confirmed this was being taken care of and the works would be done before the move in date. Not sure why she would even say this as even I knew getting any kind of work to be completed like that in 1 week would be hard but she said it so I trusted.We had to travel over 2hr round trip to collect our keys which was inconvenient but we were excited so at first hadn't bothered us so much we then heard from 3 of our neighbours that we meet pretty quickly that they were too annoyed by the journey but it was softened by a nice welcome pack of a few small gifts, we had not received anything of the sort.We start to move our things into the property lo and behold nothing has changed about the frayed and ripped carpet and nothing has been done about the back door. I reported both issues and my partner received a text within only a few days that someone was coming to the property to have a look mid day of a week day and we were asked to leave a key. We felt nervous doing so but we did and the workman updated my partner when he left to say work had been done and the key was posted, well the key given was definitely posted but an additional key for the back door was left in the back door so they already had a key? very unnerving! The work done was a few nails in the stairs to hold down carpet that wasn't even lifting the issue is that the corners have been chewed and frayed and the carpet is pilled and bobbling so the works done have made 0 impact to the issue in hand. The issue has been closed on my simple life account and I can't even comment on what's been done am I meant to report the issue again? Currently waiting for a response for the back door but so far Very Very disappointed in the help received, lack of communication and false promises.
Alexandra · 26 February 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Alexandra,Thank you for responding to our find reviewer request, allowing us to identify your records.We can see that as you stated, the fraying carpet was highlighted during the viewing and this was subsequently raised on our maintenance reporting tool as a new task. Unfortunately, there appears to be a miscommunication here, as far as our records imply that we said it would be picked up and reviewed, which is underway currently. We can’t see any communications indicating this would be completed before move, We can only apologise for any miscommunications provided by our viewing agent, and we apologise for any confusion caused here. We can see that you raised this again on the maintenance reporting portal when you moved in and this additional ticket was closed to prevent duplication of the ticket already open. This was explained and you had replied ‘Okay thank you 😊’. Additionally, we can see the scratches to the back door were rejected initially because the photos did not show the extent of the damage, however since new photos have been supplied we are awaiting a quote for the replacement of one glass panel.Where we can, we will always do in-person move ins, however sometimes this is not possible, and therefore on occasion to best fit with customer move in dates, allowing for collection is the better option to prevent any delays in move in dates. We’re sorry for any inconvenience this has caused. You should have received your welcome box, this has been flagged to the team and they will be getting on out to you right away.
★★★★★ 1/5
Trustpilot**Please don’t be fooled by reviews…
**Please don’t be fooled by reviews from the New Tenants***They have it all to painfully learn…- Minimum £100 Rent increases EVERY 12 Months- Terrible Plumbing- Wipe a mark of the wall… The paint comes off with it- Waterlogged Gardens with no drainage- If an appliance breaks ie Washing Machine expect to be using a Laundrette for 3 Months+- No flexibility on Rent payment date- No regular maintenance of the property
James · 28 August 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi James, Firstly, we want to express our gratitude for your initial positive experience with us. It's disheartening to hear that your second encounter did not meet the standards we aim to uphold. We understand your disappointment regarding the communication challenges you faced in arranging a viewing and the subsequent issues encountered upon moving in.We acknowledge the shortcomings in the initial condition of the property and the delays in addressing the reported issues. Regarding the ongoing maintenance concerns, we apologise for the inconvenience caused by the delay in resolving these matters, although still within expected timeframe , we appreciate the need to get these resolved as soon as possible. We are aware that an appointment has been arranged for Monday.Thank you for bringing these matters to our attention. We value your feedback and the opportunity to address your concerns.
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotNew team are great!
Had a lot of issues at the start with the old management team. As expected a lot of ‘snagging’ as a new house. Luke Goodwin and his team however have been amazing since taking over management. Always just a phone call away, and helps with any issues or questions we may have. Now 100% up to date with repairs!
Samantha · 26 May 2021
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Samantha, thank you for your review! We're really pleased that you have seen a huge improvement in our customer service. We will make sure Luke is aware of your lovely compliment!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotOlivia has been extremely helpful since…
Olivia has been extremely helpful since the day we moved in. If we’ve ever needed to report minor issues regarding the property we are renting, Olivia has made sure to sort it very smoothly and effectively, she is a real credit to SimpleLife
Miss · 23 May 2023
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your kind feedback!
★★★★★ 1/5
TrustpilotDon't trust them
They try any tactic in the book to take money out of your deposit. Claimed money to clean the oven yet we had proof we had done just that. Made the deposit return process as long as possible, leaving everything until the last possible moment. Also refused to answer questions and ended up failing to even submit evidence to the dispute service, seemed to just want to waste our time and hope we caved. Suffice to say they lost. Take plenty of pictures when you leave, don't trust them.
Andy · 21 February 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Hi Andy, We're sorry to hear that you are not happy with your end of tenancy deposit deductions. As you will be aware, we have completed a find reviewer request, however the information provided does not match that of any tenancy we have had on our database, so based on the information provided, it would appear you have not been part of a tenancy agreement with us. Please get in touch with us so that we can identify you and your records in order for us to help you further.
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotDear Jade,
Dear Jade,I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for all your help in finding and renting our dream home. We couldn't be happier with our new home, it's everything we've ever dreamed of and more. From its pristine condition to its wonderful amenities, we feel incredibly fortunate to have found such a perfect place to call home.We also wanted to inform you that we have already made the payment for the deposit and the rent, and we have signed the lease agreement. Your assistance in facilitating these transactions and guiding us through the paperwork was greatly appreciated.Thank you for going above and beyond to assist us every step of the way. Your expertise and guidance were invaluable, and we are truly grateful for all that you've done for us. We wish you continued success and happiness in all your endeavors.Once again, thank you for everything. kind regards,Marcos Pires
Marcos · 19 February 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your review Marcos! We will make sure that Jade receives a copy of your lovely feedback!
★★★★★ 4/5
TrustpilotWilliam Gough provided truly…
William Gough provided truly outstanding service when assisting me with completing a lease agreement. He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and efficient throughout the entire process. William quickly responded to all of my questions and concerns, ensuring I had a full understanding of the lease terms. His clear explanations made a normally tedious process straightforward and seamless. I am grateful for William's expertise and excellent client service. He is an asset to Simple Life Homes. Thank you, William!
NellieDAstrid · 17 April 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your review!
★★★★★ 4/5
TrustpilotWilliam Gough provided truly…
William Gough provided truly outstanding service when assisting me with completing a lease agreement. He was extremely professional, knowledgeable, and efficient throughout the entire process. William quickly responded to all of my questions and concerns, ensuring I had a full understanding of the lease terms. His clear explanations made a normally tedious process straightforward and seamless. I am grateful for William's expertise and excellent client service. He is an asset to Simple Life Homes. Thank you, William!
Astrid · 17 April 2024
Agent replied · 22 October 2024
Thank you for your review!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotMoving into my property tomorrow and…
Moving into my property tomorrow and viewed it not to long ago absolutely amazing inside and out and thanks to Jack the agent who has provided the best support for getting a house.
J · 22 January 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for your review JD! We hope you have a wonderful move in day!
★★★★★ 5/5
TrustpilotChristine was great!
Christine was great! She was able to advise myself and my partner on everything we needed to know. The whole process was quick, efficient and professional. Thanks.
Jake · 17 May 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review - your feedback is really appreciated.
★★★★★ 2/5
Trustpilotno parking given to a resident-they dont care
I have lived there since beginning of October and the flats themselves are lovely! But when moving i was given the impression there were car spaces available, when i moved in i questioned it and they said i was on their 'waiting list'. 5 months later no communication other than its not in contract and they cant help me. there are at least 40 unused spaces around my area but why cant they give them to their residence struggling?! I have received 3 parking tickets for parking in the area where i am supposed to be LIVING...
Lu · 6 February 2024
Agent replied · 17 June 2024
HelloThank you for your review and responding to our find reviewer request so that we can identify your development and tenancy.We can see that when applying for your property you were made aware that there were no Simple Life London parking spaces currently available, but you were happy to still proceed on that basis. We can confirm that you are still on the waitlist, and we can also see that the team did previously offer you a space that became available at another block, however you declined this space. Unfortunately, we have not had any other spaces become available for us to offer to you. Any spaces that you see available on the development are either rented by another resident or are not under the ownership of Simple Life London, so we would be unable to offer these to you. The wider site has parking restrictions in place and this is monitored by an external company (PCM), this is a site-wide instruction and not something that Simple Life London has the power over.We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused, but hopefully you can appreciate that we have no spaces available and parking restrictions were highlighted before you applied for your property.
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