Estate agents need compulsory licensing
Published On 30 January 2007
Estate agent agents need a compulsory licensing scheme, according to Halifax Estate Agents.The group is making the calls in support of new regulations being prepared by the government.
The Consumers, Estate Agents and Redress Bill, which is being considered in the house of Lords today, would make it compulsory for all estate agents to join an independent ombudsman.
The ombudsman would have the power to award compensation to buyers and sellers.
These proposals do not go far enough, according to Halifax Estate Agent, who would also like to see the licensing of all estate agents through approved bodies, as well as agreed minimum training and competency standards.
Colin Kemp, managing director, Halifax Estate Agents, said: "Our research shows there is real public support for the proposed Government scheme of compulsory membership of an ombudsman."
He added: "The public would also welcome an extension of this with the introduction of compulsory licensing."
Currently Estate agents have to comply with the Estate Agents Act 1979 and the Property Misdescriptions Act 1991.
