Propertymark’s influence has been clearly reflected in the findings of an independent evaluation into Rent Smart Wales, the mandatory registration and licensing scheme for landlords and letting agents in Wales.
The review, conducted by property training specialists RHE Global, incorporated several key proposals from Propertymark following the organisation’s active participation in a consultation process.
This included the submission of a formal report, focus group engagement, and promotion of landlord and agent surveys among members.
Among the evaluation’s published recommendations was a call for Rent Smart Wales to improve transparency and strategic clarity by producing a long-term plan that details its regulatory goals. Propertymark also highlighted the current lack of political oversight and urged closer collaboration with stakeholders to ensure accountability.
CPD PROFESSIONALISATION
Propertymark welcomed the recommendation that Rent Smart Wales recognise equivalent CPD (Continuing Professional Development) provided by professional bodies to reduce duplication of effort for agents and landlords.
The evaluation also cited CPD as a factor in the professionalisation of the sector, a stance supported by Propertymark, which pointed to the more advanced regulatory standards in Scotland, where agents must obtain a Level 6 qualification.
The review also aligned with Propertymark’s support for landlords to be required to submit rental data to help inform Local Housing Allowance calculations. However, the trade body urged the Welsh Government to clearly outline how the data would be used to ensure compliance and build trust.
FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY
Other recommendations backed by Propertymark include increased financial transparency through annual reporting of licensing income, the possibility of agents registering landlords to improve overall standards, and enhanced public awareness of Rent Smart Wales among tenants.
Tim Thomas, Policy and Campaigns Officer at Propertymark, says: “Propertymark is greatly encouraged to see that the independent evaluation has listened to many of our recommendations.
“We are ready to support Rent Smart Wales in improving its decision-making and transparency.”
