EPC reforms designed to underpin net zero journey
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland are to be revised and updated to give consumers a clearer picture of their home’s energy performance and link better with the drive to cut emissions from buildings. The proposed changes include a new rating system with clearer information on the fabric energy efficiency of a property, the emissions, efficiency and running costs of its heating system, and the cost of energy to run the home.
Swathe of 10,000-home towns will be under construction by 2029
The Ministry for Housing, Planning and Local Government (MCLHG) has issued an update on their plans for a generation of new towns six months after the launch of a dedicated task force. More than 100 potential sites across England have been suggested after the UK Government asked for expressions of interest from councils, housing developers and landowners.
New fire safety guidance offers support for managing agents
The UK Government has published a new guide to help make small blocks of flats in England safer from fire. It has practical advice for agents, building managers and owners on improving fire safety in blocks of up to three storeys containing up to six flats and includes new legal requirements introduced through Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022.
Simplified home improvement law to be debated by Lords
Introduced on 7 February 2025, the Permitted Development Rights (Extension) Bill, put forward by Lord Lucas, proposes significant changes to planning laws in England and Wales, establishing new rights for householders to modify their properties in primary legislation for the first time. Propertymark responded to the UK Government's consultation on Permitted Development Rights (PDRs) last year, supporting the reduction of barriers to sustainability upgrades.
Leasehold Right to Manage reforms take effect on 3 March 2025
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (Commencement No. 3) Regulations 2025 mark the latest significant step towards strengthening the rights of leaseholders and providing them with greater powers and protections. These changes will directly impact estate and letting agents across the UK, as they affect how leasehold properties are managed, bought, and sold.
Issue 58: Spring 2025
This issue introduces Connect, a new lead-generation platform designed to enhance collaboration among property professionals. As a core benefit of Company Advantage, Connect allows agents to generate and manage leads efficiently across the UK and beyond. Other topics covered include flexible office spaces, employee ownership trusts, and sustainability initiatives.
Fact sheet: Writing a risk assessment
Under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 (the MLRs) all Estate Agency Businesses and Letting Agency Businesses with properties that have a monthly rent that is the equivalent to 10,000 Euros or more, must produce a risk assessment.
PRS energy performance back on the UK Government's agenda
A consultation has been launched on Improving the Energy Performance of Privately Rented Homes in England and Wales by 2030, following on from the 2020 consultation, that will set new proposals whilst providing a government response to the previous consultation. At the same time, a Review of the Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation has opened to ensure warmer and safer homes for low-income and vulnerable households is a priority.
Propertymark calls for Landlord and Tenant Act to align with modern business needs
The Act is a cornerstone of commercial property law, offering security of tenure to business tenants while balancing landlords’ rights. However, Propertymark believes it is time to modernise the Act to reflect today’s challenges, including Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) and fairer lease agreements.
Fact sheet: UK sanctions reporting obligations
Under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018, the UK Government introduced a new regime of issuing financial sanctions following the UK’s departure from the European Union. Under the Act, businesses specified in the Act have to report to the OFSI if they suspect they are engaging with a client who is under financial sanctions.
AML registration failures place hundreds of agents and auctioneers in jeopardy
The most recent compliance and registration penalties published by HM Revenue and Customs reveal 144 agents sanctioned between October and December 2023. Most fines were for failing to register at the required time, and the amounts ranged from £1,250 to £52,000. However, the largest fine on the list is for a High Value Dealer ordered to pay £175,701 for multiple failures in carrying out risk assessments, having the correct policies, controls and procedures, appropriate staff training, conducting due diligence, and record keeping.
ESW1 warnings: what agents need to know about invalid fire safety forms
Recent developments concerning the company Tri Fire and one of its assessors have raised significant concerns over the validity of the EWS1 forms they have issued. Major banks are refusing to lend on properties assessed by Tri Fire, potentially causing delays or halts in property sales and remortgages.
Propertymark members should be exempt from advertising board restrictions
In our response to Westminster City Council’s consultation on the renewal and potential expansion of a requirement for planning permission to erect sales and lettings boards, we argue that our members’ high professional standards mean they should be left out of the plans. Propertymark recognises the need to protect Westminster’s aesthetic appeal but cautions against measures that could disproportionately impact responsible property agents.
65,000 homes at risk from substandard solid wall insulation
The UK Government has taken decisive action following the discovery of widespread quality issues with energy efficiency work carried out under the Energy Company Obligation 4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme. Routine inspections by TrustMark, the independent body overseeing tradespeople working in homes, have led to the immediate suspension of 39 businesses from installing new solid wall insulation.
Unique scholarship opportunities open for aspiring property professionals
The Propertymark Trust has launched a programme of financial support offering grants covering up to 100% of the costs for a Propertymark Qualifications Level 3 (SCQF L6 in Scotland) Certificate in Property Agency, helping learners take a step toward professional growth and helping to shape the future of the property industry.
Uninhabitable properties: HMRC urges caution over SDLT claims
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has seen a spike in Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) repayment requests where it’s claimed a property is not suitable for use (NSFU) as a dwelling so the lower, non-residential rates of SDLT apply. However, over 95% of NSFU claims are found to fall well below the required threshold, leaving property owners at risk of penalties.