Agency network launches criminal record checks for members

The Federation of Independent Agents (FIA) has launched criminal record bureau and directorship checks for all new and existing members.

Graham Lock, founder of the FIA, said the initiative will improve the reputation of the industry, give peace of mind to members of the public and provide a unique selling point to its agents who will gain ‘background checked' status. 

He said: “Our industry lacks any kind of ‘fit and proper’ tests which means worryingly in theory anyone, including ex-criminals can setup or be an estate agent. When you compare this to other sectors of the property industry for example mortgage brokers or solicitors the associated individual and/or company background checks are very thorough, and rightly so.”

Provided by Credence, the background check specialists will carry out a CRB and directorship search which will both form part of the FIA membership joining criteria. 

Lock added “Our industry suffers from a bad reputation, when researching the kinds of people that have been allowed to practice agency in the past it, it reads for some very unsavoury headlines.

“The best agents out there want to show their credentials, they know they’re sometimes up against unscrupulous competitors. Now our members can prove that they’re checked by a third party. It’s a strong USP that our members will utilise on market appraisals and within their company branding. We’re doing out bit to sanitise the industry.”

FIA agents will receive physical membership cards once they’ve passed the checks along with the new FIA background checked logo. A QR code will be visible on the membership card which will point to a unique e-certificate of approval that anyone can access. 

Lock said: “Our network is made up of excellent independent brands with owners that are very passionate about high standards in our industry.

“We will continue to provide them with USP’s to set the them apart from their local and national competitors. It makes sense that we lead the way on this initiative that has been well-received by members.”