Multiple people claim Hove estate agent owes them thousands of pounds

Money owed by Hove estate agent

Several people have alleged that Jack Taggart & Company Ltd, which operates as Jack Taggart & Co from 55 Queen Victoria Avenue in Hove, owes them significant sums of money. Landlords, prospective tenants and business owners report delays in receiving payments they say the firm is obliged to provide.

The company's sole registered director is Jack Taggart. When asked about the allegations, Mr Taggart did not respond to requests for comment from The Argus at the time of writing.

Earlier case led to further complaints

These allegations follow an earlier Argus investigation into Carmen Toth-Kalocsai's experience with the firm. Mrs Toth-Kalocsai spent months attempting to recover nearly £4,000 she was owed by Jack Taggart & Co. She eventually received the money in September.

Following publication of that article, eight individuals contacted The Argus with allegations of outstanding payments from Jack Taggart & Co. Five of those people have now shared their experiences.

People affected by the claims

Addy Norfolk said she and her partner paid £2,900 to Jack Taggart & Co on 21 August to secure a flat in Stanmer Park Road, Brighton. The sum was meant to cover a deposit and the first month's rent. She felt "naïve and stupid" for trusting Jack Taggart.

Rochelle Sains alleges the firm owes her £20,000. Maryam Dastourian said Jack Taggart & Co charged her tenant four months' rent in advance without informing her.

Paul Campbell, director of Professional Inventories Ltd, said Jack Taggart's word "means nothing". Abadur Rahman, owner of the Sweet Shop in Hove, said he had never dealt with an estate agent like Jack Taggart & Co.

What happens next

The claims remain unresolved. Anyone with concerns about their dealings with the firm is encouraged to contact The Argus or consider reporting the matter to relevant authorities.

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