Letting agents are being given access to a free legal helpline to assist them in navigating the more than 145 pieces of legislation, health and safety requirements and regulations.

Agents who are members of the National Approved Letting Scheme will be able to use a free helpine and support from legal firm Moore Blatch.

The free legal helpline, open between 10am and 5pm, is available to all NALS agents both on the phone and email. Queries to the helpline are dealt with by Moore Blatch’s team of specialist landlord and tenant lawyers.

For a fixed fee, NALS firms are also able to access legal documents that automate the process of producing section 8 and section 21 notices as well as the ability to issue a free letter before claim for rental arrears.

Agents will be able to produce legally enforceable notices, letters and court documents on solicitors’ headed paper.

Isobel Thomson, chief executive of NALS, said: “There’s no doubt it’s a challenging time for agents, and we want to be able to support our firms in every way possible. The legal landscape is constantly changing and at times confusing.

“The free helpline and additional fixed price services from Moore Blatch offer agents the best legal advice and support, in a simple cost-effective way.”

Mark Osgood, partner at  Moore Blatch, said: “We are delighted to be able to help NALS firms in this complex and ever-changing area, so we can all ensure a quicker and cost-effective outcome for landlords and their letting agents.”