News and reports

The House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee continues its inquiry into the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and quizzed Dame Judith Hackitt, Chair of the Building Control Independent Panel (BCIP), who said that the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) will do more to unblock delays and improve collaboration with industry.

From 18 November 2025, identity verification will become mandatory for the incorporation and appointment of new directors and people with significant control (PSCs). Companies House is encouraging individuals to verify their identities as early as possible.

Property agents looking to safeguard their business against financial loss can benefit from suitable office insurance. Offices and those who work within them can be exposed to risks such as theft, damage, or liability claims. Gallagher, Propertymark’s official insurance broking partner, explains the benefits and the potential business-saving cover it can provide.

The UK Government has confirmed it will move forward with plans to end hidden commission payments on buildings insurance — a change welcomed for improving transparency, but one that raises new challenges for managing agents and landlords. Propertymark has warned that while reforms aim to protect leaseholders, unanswered questions around costs, VAT, and permitted activities could have significant consequences for the sector.

The first Scottish city has introduced a visitor levy, adding a 5% charge to overnight stays from 24 July 2026. The charge will apply to bookings made on or after 1 October 2025, and letting agents and landlords should start preparing now.

A BBC investigation has revealed that criminals used the UK Government’s unclaimed estates list to commit probate fraud. The list, published on the Gov.uk website, included details of around 6,000 estates left by people who died without a will or known heirs. It was taken offline in July 2025 after evidence showed fraudsters used it to submit fake wills and claim millions of pounds in assets.

Reforms announced are going to make it easier and cheaper for empty commercial units to be turned into hospitality venues will be introduced to support efforts to boost footfall and revitalise town centres.

The warmer months bring a surge of tenancy turnovers, from student lets ending around graduation, to families relocating during school holidays. For letting agents, this can be a hectic period with a high volume of move-outs to process. Propertymark Industry Supplier, the Tenancy Deposit Scheme shares best practices to help agents manage summer check-outs smoothly, ensure deposits are returned promptly, and minimise the chance of disputes.

When the Lionesses lifted the UEFA Women’s Euro trophy, the nation rightly celebrated their sporting prowess — but their journey to the top was no fluke. It was the product of years of targeted investment in grassroots infrastructure, coaching, and pathways for talent development. In short, a long-term plan with delivered results.