WHY USE AN ARLA PROPERTYMARK PROTECTED AGENT?

Agents do not currently have to be qualified, anyone can set up a lettings agency but only an ARLA Propertymark agent offers true protection and peace of mind. All agents who belong to ARLA Propertymark are required to operate in a transparent way, providing services which are subject to independent scrutiny. Any agent who falls below Propertymark’s standards will be subject to disciplinary action.

USING A PROPERTYMARK PROTECTED AGENT PROVIDES GUARANTEES:

• Your income is backed by Propertymark Client Money Protection, a scheme which reimburses  landlords and tenants for missing rent or deposits if their agent’s business fails

• The responsible agent holds a property management and lettings qualification to at  least Level 3 eg A Level standard or equivalen

• Your agent’s experience is supported by regular continuing professional development and refresher training

• They must belong to one of the three government approved independent redress schemes: The Property Ombudsman, Ombudsman Services:  Property or Property Redress Scheme

• Your agent is up to date with complex legislative changes and best practice

• The agent must comply with a nationally recognised Code of Practice

• All agents offering Propertymark Protection must hold appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance 

• If they hold client money their accounts are independently inspected regularly

• If your agent is also dealing with sales they need to be registered with HM Revenue and Customs for anti-money laundering

• ARLA Propertymark members are required to undertake training every year, this means that agents are up to date with best practice and understand legislative changes which regularly alter the requirements involved in residential lettings.