New plans to raise standards across the property agent sector have been unveiled by the housing minister Heather Wheeler.

A new working group made up of experts from across the property sector will consider a number of options, including the case for regulation and the introduction of mandatory qualifications for all property agents so landlords, tenants, homebuyers and sellers can be confident they are getting a professional service and are being charged fairly.

The group, chaired by Lord Best, will report their recommendations to government by summer next year, with a view to better supporting homebuyers, sellers, landlords, leaseholders and tenants.

The working group will consider the entire property agent sector to ensure any new framework, including any professional qualifications requirements, a Code of Practice, and a proposed independent regulator, is consistent across letting, managing and estate agents.

Speaking following the announcement, Wheeler said: “For too long, many people have faced incurring fees and bad service from a number of property agents. People should have confidence when buying, selling or renting a home. Lord Best’s wealth of knowledge will provide a valuable insight and help us make necessary changes to ensure consumers have confidence when buying, selling, letting or renting their home.”