Revised guidance published on terms used in property advertising

Published by the National Trading Standards Estate & Letting Agency Team

Revised guidance has been published by the National Trading Standards Estate & Letting Agency Team with regard to supplementary terms used when marketing properties.

The guidance now includes terms relating to lettings and has been developed in consultation with industry stakeholders. Please see the revised guidance here.

The guidance has been updated to provide clarity and consistency for agents and consumers and improve standards across the industry.

Emma Cooke, Policy & Information Manager, National Trading Standards Estate & Letting Agency Team, said:

“Agents commonly use terms like ‘new on the market’, ‘new instruction’, ‘under offer’, ‘sale/let agreed’, ‘sold/let subject to contract’ in advertisements, marketing boards and on property portal listings. Delays in updating a property’s listing status or use of incorrect descriptions can lead to frustration for all involved in the buying or renting process – as well as risking agents breaching industry codes and their legal obligations.

“This updated guidance is intended to provide consistency and clarity and – by providing a working definition – we hope this helps reduce unnecessary confusion for property agents, consumers, and other organisations in the property industry.”