There is no mandatory regulation of estate or letting agents

Unlike the financial services sector, property agents do not currently have to be qualified. The idea that 'anyone can become a property agent' is not far from the truth but only Propertymark Protected agents offer true protection and peace of mind.

All agents who voluntarily join Propertymark are required to operate in a transparent way, providing services which are subject to independent scrutiny. Any agent who falls below Propertymark’s standards will be subject to disciplinary action.

The regulation of property agents is a work in progress. In the meantime there are membership bodies such as Propertymark who continue to ensure excellent practice, and their member agents absolutely have to have qualifications and adhere to strict codes of conduct. Do look out for them, those are the ones you want to be working with.

Using a Propertymark member agent mitigates the chance of issues arising. You can feel more confident about your property agent, knowing they’re part of a professional body designed to meet high standards and service.

Phil Spencer
Phil Spencer Founder | Move iQ

What is Propertymark Protection?

Propertymark Protection is a consumer protection scheme that provides financial protection, an independent redress scheme, and a code of practice for consumers who use the services of our members.

It ensures that members adhere to high standards of professionalism and ethical behaviour, and gives consumers peace of mind when dealing with Propertymark members. By using a Propertymark member, consumers can be assured that they are dealing with a professional who is committed to providing a high standard of service, and that they have access to a range of protections and recourse in the event that something goes wrong.


1. You are backed by a Client Money Protection (CMP) scheme

Propertymark Protected agencies have to hold client money in a separate client account which is independently inspected every year. In simple terms, CMP is a reimbursement scheme meaning your money is safe should an agent unexpectedly go bust or commit theft.

2. Your agency complies with a nationally recognised Code of Practice

To uphold our high standards, all members are obliged to comply with our Conduct and Membership Rules. Disciplinary hearings are arranged when serious breaches occur; a tribunal will consider the case and impose sanctions on the member if they are found to have breached our rules.

3. Your agency has professional indemnity insurance

This insurance provides cover for legal costs and expenses in claims resulting from negligence or breach of professional duty. It also covers any damages or costs awarded to consumers as a result of negligence.

4. Your agency has all the required registrations 

We confirm our members' registration with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) who uphold information rights in the public's interest, their registration with a Government-approved independent redress scheme, and we also check that our members are registered with HMRC for Anti-Money Laundering supervision.

5. The responsible agent holds a relevant property qualification

Individual Propertymark members are also required to undertake training every year, this helps to ensure they are up to date with best practice and understand legislative changes which regularly alter the playing field. 

Find out more  →

Find your nearest expert

Our members are spread across the UK so our Find an expert search will help you locate your nearest agency.

By using a Propertymark Protected agent you are guaranteed to be consulting with a professional who will give you up-to-date advice and guidance. Don’t suffer through dealing with agents who are inexperienced or in some cases do not adhere to the law.

More information
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Consumer guides

Propertymark is the go-to membership organisation for answers to property related questions. Our guides are here to help consumers gain an insight into the expertise they'll receive from Propertymark Protected experts.

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Client Money Protection applications

Client Money Protection (CMP) is a scheme that reimburses landlords and tenants should an agent misappropriate rent or other client funds.

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Consumer complaints process

Propertymark members must follow our membership rules that set a higher standard than the law demands. If you feel that your agent has failed to meet these standards we can help.

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More about Move iQ

Move iQ is packed with comprehensive, up to date and relevant information and advice for anyone who is buying or renting a property in the UK.

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Our Instagram account is there to give you help and advice whilst navigating the world of buying, selling and renting.

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