Rayner pledges mandatory licensing for estate agents, with powers to revoke licences

Angela Rayner told the Labour Party conference this week that the government will legislate for independent regulation of property agents, with licences removed from those who break the rules. The aim is to tackle unqualified and unregulated agents, and Propertymark, safeagent and Rightmove have all signalled support. For buyers and sellers, the practical effect would be a clearer standard of conduct and a route to redress when an agent falls short. It is a pledge rather than a bill, so there is no timetable, licensing design or cost to agents yet.