Code of Ethics & Professional Client Care

Terminology: Under the new Estate Agents Act

• "Estate agents" means estate agency businesses(sole proprietors, partnerships, and companies)
• "Salespersons" means individuals who perform estate agency work

The Code of Ethics and Professional Client Care is established under the Estate Agents (Estate Agency Work) Regulations 2010- commenced on 15 Nov 2010.

The Code sets the standard of performance required of estate agents and salespersons when carrying out their estate agency work and dealings with clients and public. If you fail to observe the Code, it may amount to unsatisfactory professional conduct or professional misconduct and you could be subject to disciplinary actions under CEA.

The Code covers:

1. Knowledge of and compliance with relevant laws, practice circulars and guidelines, and essential facts
2. Due diligence and compliance with law and statutory requirements
3. General duty to clients and public
4. Prohibition against bringing discredit or disrepute to real estate industry
5. Duty to clients in relation to signing of documents
6. Obligations in respect of agreements
7. Obligation in conveying offers and counter offers
8. Interpretation or translation if necessary
9. Duties in respect of advertisements
10. Duty to avoid conflict of interests
11. Recommending professional advice where appropriate
12. Safeguarding confidential information

The Code is part of the Estate Agents (Estate Agency Work) Regulations 2010. Click here to download the Estate Agents (Estate Agency Work) Regulations 2010.