Who can you turn to if your property agent lets you down?
Before instructing an estate agent, letting agent or block managing agent, ask:
“Which approved redress scheme do you belong to?”
Residential estate agents must belong to an approved redress scheme. In England, this requirement also covers letting agents and businesses carrying out qualifying residential property management work, including many block managing agents.
The two approved schemes are Property Redress Scheme (PRS) and The Property Ombudsman (TPO). Either is acceptable. Not belonging to PRS does not mean an agent is breaking the rules—but belonging to neither, where membership is required, is a serious concern.
Why does it matter?
If your agent cannot resolve your complaint through its complaints procedure, a redress scheme provides access to independent consideration, subject to its rules.
Whether you are selling your home, letting a property or paying for block management, you should know where to turn when something goes wrong.
What if your agent has no membership?
Letting agents and property managers in England who fail to join an approved scheme when required can face a financial penalty of up to £5,000.
Ask for their membership details and check the scheme’s official register. Confirm that the business name matches the company you are instructing and that membership covers the service you need.
A logo alone is not enough.
Redress membership, Client Money Protection and tenancy deposit protection serve different purposes. One does not replace the others.
The MyEstate approach
At MyEstate, we strive to deliver excellent service while meeting the responsibilities that come with handling your property. We take compliance, clear procedures and accountability seriously—helping to protect landlords, tenants, buyers, sellers and leaseholders.
Before handing over your property or your money, check your agent’s credentials. Good service should come with accountability.
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