BLOG: Harassment law changes: what agents need to know now
Summary
The article explains updated timings and practical implications of the Employment Rights Act 2025 for estate and letting agents, with the most significant change being the move to an “all reasonable steps” duty from October 2026 and renewed employer liability for third-party harassment. It also notes that whistleblowing protection for harassment disclosures is now in force, while the NDA-related restrictions have been delayed into 2027.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors often work in public-facing, client-facing settings such as valuations, viewings and key handovers, so the expanded harassment duty and evidence expectations are directly relevant to workplace risk management. The article also highlights the need for robust reporting, training and policy updates that may affect firms employing surveyors.
Key points
- From October 2026, employers must take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment.
- Liability for harassment by clients, contractors or members of the public is reintroduced from the first incident.
- Whistleblowing protection for harassment disclosures took effect on 6 April 2026.
- NDA restrictions relating to harassment complaints have been delayed and are now expected in 2027.
- Employers should document risk assessments, training and independent reporting channels.
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