Agents view audits as an opportunity to strengthen everyday practice, and the visits are increasingly recognised as a practical tool that supports high standards across the sector with clear and practical advice—not criticism—provided to help confidence and avoid penalties that could have a serious impact on businesses.
Members’ experiences in their own words
We recently had our audit conducted by Darren Kitchenside, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. The audit was not only thorough but also extremely valuable for our business.
Darren took the time to explain everything in detail, ensuring we clearly understood each step of the process and the reasoning behind the requirements. His professionalism, knowledge, and approachable manner made what could have been a daunting exercise into a very constructive and positive experience.
He highlighted key areas for improvement while also reassuring us on the processes we are doing well. This gave us both confidence and practical guidance to further strengthen our compliance. The clarity with which Darren explained complex matters made the whole process straightforward and far less overwhelming.
Overall, Darren’s expertise and supportive approach turned the audit into a genuinely useful learning experience for our team. We came away not just with a clear understanding of compliance but also with actionable steps to enhance our systems going forward.
A truly excellent auditor—professional, knowledgeable, and a credit to Propertymark.
I have to say the visit was extremely helpful and beneficial to us. Far from being daunting, our auditor was friendly and approachable and had a wealth of knowledge to circumnavigate compliance in the estate agency world, which, as we know, is ever-changing. A very helpful email and audit report were produced with excellent pointers and suggestions for a few tweaks. If you get the review or visit, embrace it and, as most of us work hard, making sure all is correct, it's great to speak to someone who gives you the confidence to carry on what you're doing and make sure it’s done correctly. I would highly recommend it, thank you
Despite feeling worried and anxious, I must say it was the exact opposite to what I had expected. The whole process was hugely beneficial, friendly and relaxed.
I would say to any member the auditor was friendly and professional and that it was a positive experience I would thoroughly recommend.
On a personal note I was more than a little anxious at the prospect on an audit (an emotive term at best), Matt made the process comfortable, informative and much more of an opportunity than an undertaking! I look forward to meeting Matt again, possibly at the next Regional Conference.
What audits cover
Audits review how firms manage record-keeping, documentation, client money handling and compliance procedures. Focus areas typically include anti-money laundering (AML), client money protection (CMP), and data and consumer protection. Visits last approximately three hours and can be conducted on-site or virtually, followed by a written summary that outlines strengths and areas for improvement. The feedback is designed to offer assurance and guidance, helping firms meet standards confidently rather than addressing issues after the fact.
With increasing legislative demands—including the Renters' Rights Act 2025, the Housing (Scotland) Bill, Leasehold Reform, and potential changes to home buying and selling—agents must stay informed and compliant. An audit would help alleviate these pressures so businesses can focus on managing and selling properties.
Prevention, not penalties
Propertymark audits improve systems and reduce the risk of enforcement action. As highlighted in From Fines to Fraud: What’s at Stake when Agents Fall Short, failures in record-keeping and client money controls can lead to significant penalties. Early intervention helps firms demonstrate good practice and protect their reputation.
Booking an audit
Individual members can book a desk-based or face-to-face audit by emailing the compliance team.
Subscribers to Propertymark’s Company Advantage Scheme operate under our simplified regulatory framework, which includes periodic inspections, the opportunity to ask questions and resolve any concerns before they become an issue. They can also access Compliance Café—a collection of in-depth videos on emerging issues, FAQs, insider tips, and a monthly bulletin highlighting legislative changes and guidance that directly impact the sector.
Compliance Café
Helping you to stay ahead of regulatory changes, support your clients, and maintain a competitive edge with our expert resources.
Continued compliance support
Propertymark members have access to a wide range of guidance, news updates and professional resources covering regulatory changes, best practices, legal requirements and sector reform. Staying up to date with this material—alongside regular audit visits—helps agents adapt their processes with confidence as expectations evolve.
