Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Property Industry Eye. Read the original article for full details.
Two-Thirds of Letting Agents Lack Qualifications Amid Mandatory Regulation Push
Almost two-thirds of letting agents have no property qualification, prompting fresh calls for tighter regulation of the sector. The Lettings Industry Council (TLIC) is urging the government to introduce mandatory competency standards for lettings practitioners, alongside enforceable conduct rules and a public register.
The Research Findings
Research conducted by TLIC in 2025 found that 65% of agents held no property qualification. Meanwhile, 82% of those surveyed believed that regulation would improve professionalism in the lettings industry.
TLIC argues that the current system leaves a “regulatory gap”, which it says results in inconsistent standards and limited accountability.
What TLIC Is Calling For
TLIC wants the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to revive a dedicated working group on regulation. It is also calling for an impact assessment and new primary legislation.
Under the proposals, practitioners would need to demonstrate appropriate competence and meet defined professional standards. TLIC also wants ministers to consult professional bodies and seek cross-party support for reform.
Industry Reaction
The intervention follows years of debate over the regulation of property agents. Lord Richard Best, chair of the Regulation of Property Agents Working Group, backed the case for greater regulation. He said it was “great to see the whole of the lettings industry getting behind the case for regulation, qualifications and professionalism for the sector”, adding that the recommendations of the Regulation of Property Agents Working Group had been largely adopted by the industry.
Theresa Wallace, co-chair of TLIC, said that with the lettings market continuing to be affected by the consequences of the Renters’ Rights Act, the need for greater professionalisation is more important than ever. She added that it is critical that the public has the utmost confidence in the integrity of the market.
What This Means for Agents and Inventory Clerks
For letting agents and inventory clerks, the push for mandatory competency standards could signal formal qualification requirements ahead. With 65% of agents currently unqualified, any move towards enforced professional standards and a public register would be a significant change for the sector.
Source: Property Industry Eye