Sweeping changes proposed

The Estate Agency Affairs Board (EAAB) has announced it is negotiating with the Competition Commission and the Department of Trade and Industry to re-introduce compulsory board examinations.

The exam, which was made compulsory on its introduction in 1984, was relaxed in the mid-nineties despite protests from the industry. It forms part of a strategy devised by the board to improve its regulation of estate agent activities, enhance the public image of estate agents and also to create greater unity. Part of this plan involves the creation of an Operations Division which will be responsible for public relations and problem solving through a 10-member manned call centre.

The EAAB intends keeping the public aware of industry changes through its public awareness programmes. Changes have also been proposed to the Estate Agency Act. These include the registration of all office managers with the EAAB, the appointment of one staff member as a compliance officer to facilitate interaction with the Board and the relaxation of audit protocol on compulsory trust accounts.

RodneyHayter.com