The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) and National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) have shifted their emphasis from industry licensing to consumer protection, with the launch of Propertymark.

The new focus unifies the two organisations, as ARLA Propertymark and NAEA Propertymark. They jointly stated: ‘For over fifty years, ARLA and NAEA have represented the professional property sector but consumers are largely unaware of either organisation. Having listened to our members, and, given the significant challenges the industry is facing, it is clear, now more than ever before, that the public needs far better understanding of how to choose a property agent that has the consumer’s interest at heart.’

David Cox, ARLA Propertymark chief executive, and Mark Hayward, NAEA Propertymark chief executive, said: “At present customers don’t know where to go for advice or can’t be sure if they are dealing with a professional. We are changing this. We will reach out to customers directly so they recognise Propertymark and understand that by using a Propertymark Protected agent that they and their money are safe.

“Propertymark is a stamp of approval for consumers when they seek professional property expertise in buying, selling, renting, leasing, or valuing a property.”