The government is moving towards stronger standards for property agents, with a new Code of Practice and proposed mandatory qualifications for estate and letting agents. But what could this mean for landlords and tenants?
Why is the government introducing new standards?
Letting agents can play a major role in managing rental properties, from finding tenants and collecting rent to handling maintenance, paperwork and compliance.
The government has said the property-agent sector is currently lightly regulated compared with other professions. Its plans aim to improve professional standards, accountability and consumer confidence.
A non-statutory Code of Practice setting out minimum standards for property agents is expected later in 2026. The government also plans to consult on mandatory qualifications for estate and letting agents in 2027.
What could this mean for landlords?
For landlords, stronger standards could provide greater clarity when choosing and working with a letting agent.
Agents may increasingly be expected to demonstrate appropriate knowledge, follow clearer professional standards and provide greater transparency around their services.
This could be particularly important as landlords face an expanding range of responsibilities around property management and compliance.
However, the proposed changes are still being developed, so landlords should not assume that all future requirements are already in force.
Why does regulation matter for tenants too?
Tenants rely on letting agents for important parts of their renting experience, including communication, property management and handling issues.
Clearer standards and appropriate oversight could help create greater consistency across the sector and give both landlords and tenants a clearer understanding of what they should expect from a professional agent.
The government's roadmap specifically links these reforms to improving standards and trust in property agents.
What should landlords do now?
While the new framework develops, landlords can take practical steps to stay informed and maintain oversight of their properties.
Make sure you understand:
- What your letting agent is responsible for
- Which compliance responsibilities remain with you
- What fees and services are included
- How property records and documents are maintained
- How complaints or problems are handled
Regulation can set standards, but landlords still need visibility over their own properties.
Keeping important documents, compliance dates, rent information and property records organised can make it easier to stay on top of your responsibilities, whether you manage your properties yourself or work with an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will letting agents need qualifications?
The government plans to consult on mandatory qualifications for estate and letting agents in 2027. Any requirements will depend on the outcome of that consultation and future legislation.
Is the new Code of Practice already law?
No. The government plans to publish a non-statutory Code of Practice in 2026 and is considering legislation to make compliance mandatory in the future.
Why does this matter to landlords?
Clearer professional standards could help landlords understand what to expect from letting agents while providing greater transparency and accountability across the sector.
