Government Proposes Mandatory Qualifications
Today (Friday 4th July), the Government has launched a major consultation on leasehold reform, setting out proposals that could reshape residential property management in the UK.
Published by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, the consultation follows the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 and invites views on several key reforms — including the introduction of mandatory qualifications for residential property managers.
Other proposals cover:
- Greater transparency for service charges
- New rules for recovering legal costs
- A revised Section 20 major works process
Andrew Bulmer, CEO of The Property Institute commented:
“We welcome the Government’s consultation on strengthening leaseholder protections as a timely and necessary step towards improving the lives of residents in multi-occupancy buildings across England and Wales. Proposals to improve service charge transparency, rebalance litigation costs, and introduce mandatory qualifications for managing agents represent a bold and meaningful advancement in leaseholder clarity, confidence, and protection.
The Property Institute is particularly pleased to see that the Government is reviewing Lord Best’s 2019 report on Regulation of Property Agents and that they have made clear that this consultation is not the final step in the regulation of managing agents. We have long advocated for a robust regulatory framework, including an independent regulator, to ensure proper oversight of both individuals and firms. This is essential to raising standards, protecting leaseholders, and restoring trust in the sector.
Our latest TPI Service Charge Index highlights the financial pressures many leaseholders face, and we are optimistic that the Government’s proposals - including standardised documentation, improved access to information, and digitalisation - will contribute to lasting, positive change. We look forward to working collaboratively with the Government to support the successful implementation of these reforms.”
