UK Government confirms new AML supervisor — no change for property agents

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) will become the Single Professional Services Supervisor (SPSS) overseeing Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) compliance for the legal, accountancy, and trust and company service sectors. HMRC will continue to supervise agents under the Money Laundering Regulations, and firms that are already compliant do not need to make any changes to their existing AML procedures.

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In our response to the 2023 consultation response, we emphasised that AML supervision must be proportionate and led by sector expertise to remain effective.

While the FCA’s new remit does not extend to property agency businesses, we will continue to engage with Government to ensure that AML regulation for agents remains practical, risk-based, and clearly understood.

Read the consultation outcome on GOV.UK  →

What this means for property agents

Estate and letting agency businesses will remain registered with HMRC for AML/CTF supervision, with the same requirements for reporting and record-keeping. There are no new fees or registration processes to complete because of these reforms.

The new model only affects supervision for other professional sectors, but Propertymark will continue to monitor developments as the UK Government and FCA implement the new structure.

Implementation and next steps

The reforms will require primary legislation, meaning any changes will take time to come into effect. Planning is already underway between HM Treasury, the FCA, and existing supervisors (including the Office for Professional Body Anti-Money Laundering Supervision and HMRC) to ensure a smooth transition.

A further consultation is expected in November 2025 on the powers and duties of the FCA in its expanded role. We will review this carefully and highlight any implications for agents.

Supporting members with AML compliance

Members can access guidance, training, and templates to help agents meet their AML responsibilities and prepare for any future updates to the regulatory framework.