A lettings agent reported by the BBC for allegedly withholding tenant deposits and failing to pass rent to landlords is also said to have incorrectly used Propertymark-related initials on a LinkedIn profile. The article notes that Trading Standards has been informed and that Companies House records show an active strike-off proposal against the business.
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.
The article explains that the first academic year under the Renters’ Rights Act is creating practical issues for student landlords, particularly around possession timing for Houses in Multiple Occupation. Propertymark says the temporary transitional arrangements for Ground 4A have now passed, so landlords and agents who did not act within the 2026 window are unlikely to secure possession under that route for the remaining year.
Reports suggest that under proposed High Value Council Tax Surcharge rules, some owners of homes worth £2 million or more in England may face internal inspections to support valuation, with refusal potentially attracting a fine. The Valuation Office Agency is expected to handle valuations, although HMRC says most decisions should be made using existing information without needing to visit properties.
Street.co.uk has added the government’s official Form 4A into its rent review workflow, allowing letting agents to generate, sign and serve rent increase notices within the platform. The update is designed to reduce manual administration and support a more consistent compliance process for periodic tenancy rent increases under the Renters’ Rights Act.
An employment tribunal has upheld claims of pregnancy and sex discrimination against Purplebricks Group plc, awarding a former agent more than £47,000 in damages. The case centred on the handling of the employee’s pregnancy disclosure, return to work on reduced hours, and the failure to adjust performance targets to reflect her circumstances.
