Application procedure for redress scheme operators

It is still open to scheme operators to apply for approval of a redress scheme to deal with complaints about estate agency work in relation to residential property.

Application procedure and criteria for approval:

Download the criteria for OFT approval of estate agents redress schemes (pdf 115 kb).

The OFT announced a change to its criteria for approval of estate agents redress schemes on 11 March 2008 - see press release. 

Download the guidance for applicants on the application procedure (pdf 55 kb).

Download the application form (Word doc 188 kb).

Download the list of supporting information to be included with the application form (pdf 55 kb).

Please send completed applications to:

earsapp@oft.gsi.gov.uk

and also by post to:

Approval of estate agents redress schemes
Melloney Smith
3C/06
Office of Fair Trading
Fleetbank House
2-6 Salisbury Square
London
EC4Y 8JX

If you have any questions about the application process you can use the contact details above or phone Melloney Smith on 020 7211 8479.

We have also prepared guidance on the factors the OFT will take in to account and what the procedures will be if it becomes necessary to consider withdrawing approval from an estate agents redress scheme.

Download policy and procedures for withdrawing OFT approval of an estate agents redress scheme (pdf 84 kb).

Criteria for approval - consultation exercise

In May 2007 we consulted on a draft of the criteria, which estate agents redress schemes will need to meet in order to be approved for the purposes of the Act. We received a very good response to our consultation and we are grateful to all those who submitted views, comments and suggestions.

Download the consultation paper - OFT approval of estate agents redress schemes (pdf 123 kb).

Download the OFT response to the consultation (pdf 203 kb).

Back to: Estate Agents Redress Schemes