Mandatory qualifications for letting agents plus new code of conduct
Summary
The government has confirmed plans to require letting agents to be qualified and to operate under a new code of conduct as part of a wider package of housing market reforms. The same announcement also sets out proposals for digital sales packs, earlier binding agreements and greater use of digital tools to reduce transaction delays and fall-throughs.
Why it matters
These proposals could affect the information surveyors are expected to provide and the way their reports are used within faster, more digitised transactions. They also signal a broader shift in standards and process across the residential sales and lettings sectors, with implications for compliance and professional practice.
Key points
- Letting agents will be required to hold qualifications and follow a new code of conduct.
- Government plans include upfront sales packs at listing, covering condition, leasehold costs and chain status.
- Earlier binding agreements are intended to reduce late-stage transaction fall-throughs.
- Digital property logbooks, electronic signatures and AI-assisted conveyancing are being promoted.
- The reforms are presented as a way to cut delays, reduce fraud risk and speed up home moves.
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