Troubled times are looming as the cost of living crisis bites the PRS hard. Tenant credit checks have never been more vital, says Richard Reed.

Chief of proptech firm Vouch says pandemic has helped to initiate a much needed injection of innovation within the industry.

A good tenant reference is the foundation of a reliable let, but as Richard Reed reveals, there are an increasing number of tech-led options now available.

Sheffield-based Vouch says the pandemic has disrupted the traditional referencing industry and ushered in a demand for digital.

Covid cast a shadow of doubt over rent guarantee insurance, says Richard Reed, but insurers have responded to ensure this critical lettings cover continues to be available.

Vouch and Reposit has signed a deal that enables letting agents to manage a tenant's deposit and referencing on a single smartphone app.

Industry players worry that million of tenants will struggle to pass referencing after prolonged periods on the recently-extended scheme.

Agents may be enjoying a mini boom at the moment, but dark clouds are looming. The good news is they can earn extra cash from sales and lettings – sometimes without lifting…