The proposals included will apply to both the social and private rented sectors in England so that all homes are free from damp, mould, and other hazards. The consultation, launched on 2 July 2025, also covers how local authorities would enforce the new standard and includes a proposal that it becomes an enforceable requirement in privately rented homes from 2035 or 2037.

We were delighted to welcome members from across the UK and internationally to our interactive digital AGM, which gave members a chance to hear updates on key issues from our Chair, CEO, and Head of Finance, along with the opportunity to ask questions. We also marked the beginning of fresh Presidential terms for the ARLA Propertymark and NAEA Propertymark Advisory Panels and announced this year's successful Vice-Presidents, who now join the presidential teams for the sales and lettings divisions.

The Data (Use and Access) Act 2025 officially became law on 19 June, marking the biggest update to the UK’s digital data laws since Brexit. The Act amends — but does not replace — the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). For Propertymark members, the new law presents a golden opportunity to streamline processes and embrace innovation, all while continuing to protect people’s personal data.

The UK’s largest multi-disciplinary conference for property professionals was hosted at ExCeL London on Friday 13 June, with attendees from the whole spectrum of property disciplines. The energy, insight, and enthusiasm throughout the day reaffirmed Propertymark’s role at the heart of the industry.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves, MP, delivered her first Spending Review on 11 June 2025, setting out the UK Government’s financial plans through to 2029. With major implications for the housing sector, the review includes a headline investment in social and affordable housing – the biggest such commitment in 50 years. Propertymark welcomes this clear signal that housing is a top priority. We also recognise the importance of scrutinising how this investment will be delivered in practice and what it means for agents across the property sector.

2024 was a year defined by strategic investment, enhanced member support, and strong financial performance. Despite a challenging economic landscape, we held membership fees and Client Money Protection levies at 2022 levels for a third consecutive year, while growing membership by 4.3% to 18,711.

The global venture arm of the National Association of Realtors has selected eight high-growth start-ups for its 2025 REACH UK scale-up programme. Tackling critical challenges across the property sector - from late rent and retrofit finance to water use, waste and leasing inefficiencies, the companies represent the next wave of innovation set to modernise housing, lettings, finance, and sustainability. Delivered in collaboration with Propertymark and TDS Group, the programme provides a tailored pathway to growth through industry access, investment, and targeted support.

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) system will see the introduction of RdSAP 10 – an update to the methodology that underpins domestic energy assessments in existing homes. The changes are the most significant in over a decade and are expected to improve the accuracy of EPCs, better reflect how homes are used, and help inform decisions on energy efficiency. Nevertheless, some Propertymark members have already reported increased costs for the more detailed assessments.

Inadequate or insufficient insurance cover may result in serious financial loss and can affect organisations of any size. Underinsurance can have potentially serious consequences for a business when they make a claim. Gallagher, Propertymark’s official insurance broking partner, explains the potential impact underinsurance can have.

It may not have been bright, but it was certainly early as teams of spirited property professionals gathered at Fairlop Waters on Sunday 18 May for the third annual Agents Giving Dragon Boat Race. Among the 10 teams competing, two flew the Propertymark flag: the Propertymark Green Dragons and the Propertymark Trust. Each boat was crewed by a mix of staff, volunteers, member agents, and supportive friends and family.

Jayne Bryant MS, Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government announced that the survey will be undertaken in 2026–27, marking a major step forward in improving housing policy. This is a great campaign win for Propertymark – we have been calling for this for some time, including in evidence to the Senedd’s Local Government and Housing Committee, where we made it clear that without up-to-date and reliable information, ministers can’t make informed decisions that truly reflect what’s happening across Wales.

The property sector has seen a significant regulatory shift with the quiet withdrawal of the National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) Material Information Guidance. This change coincides with the enforcement of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC Act) on 6 April 2025 which supersedes the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs) and has shifted power over consumer protections to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

Plans are afoot to strengthen HMRC (HM Revenue and Customs) to act quickly and robustly against professional tax advisers who help clients avoid paying the correct tax. Propertymark welcomes this because it aligns with our calls to the Treasury, and we support HMRC’s ambition to ensure the financial sector upholds the highest standards and integrity of the tax system.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC Act) was enacted on 24 May 2024 and provides regulation of competition in digital markets, amending the Competition Act 1998 and the Enterprise Act 2002 and encompassing the protection of consumer rights and other related rights.

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC), which passed into law on 24 May 2024, contains provisions to prohibit unfair commercial practices, replacing and updating the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (the 2008 regulations). The legislation hands direct enforcement powers to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), giving them the authority to act on breaches of consumer protection rules, including requirements for providing material information.