| Comment | As others have mentioned, holding fees are illegal. In the past, agencies and landlords would retain part or all of it if you changed your mind and backed out of a tenancy. Since the rule change, they've sort of stuck around as I imagine they act as a hook to encourage you not to back out (at best) and at worst, to take advantage of those not aware of it and leave them out of pocket if they did back out. You're not obliged to pay it and I doubt they'll kick up a fuss if you challenged it.
One thing I'd suggest is to check the energy performance certificate for the property. It tells you how energy efficient it is, how the property is heated, single Vs double glazing etc..etc... The advert should have an EPC for you to view, but you can also get them [here](https://www.scottishepcregister.org.uk/CustomerFacingPortal/EPCPostcodeSearch).. less energy efficient tend to mean higher fuel bills. |
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