Agents still falling short on material information – warning

Research by iamproperty reveals that essential material information is often missing from property listings, despite guidance issued over a year ago by National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT). A review of 150 Rightmove listings found none were fully compliant, with just 7.5% mentioning utilities and 21% addressing parking. Critical information like building safety and flood risks was also absent, raising concerns for buyers.

Iamproperty attributes these shortcomings to time pressures on estate agents and calls for tech solutions to improve compliance. Transparency in material information is seen as vital for reducing unexpected costs, preventing last-minute transaction failures, and enhancing the homebuying process. Although full material information guidance arrived in 2023, the industry still struggles to meet its requirements.