NAEA Lawline dominated by terms of business

The new Lawline operated for the National Association of Estate Agents appears so far to be concentrating on calls about employment law and agency terms of business.

David Lester, senior partner and head of the commercial team at Blythe Liggins - which operates the Lawline for the NAEA - says association members commonly ring with questions on dual commission entitlement and getting advice on their position in disputes over whether a former agency has a claim to a sales fee, as well as multiple agency agreement queries.

Publicity given to the need for agents to publicise their fees and VAT charges in a transparent fashion has also prompted calls, as has members’ concern over anti money laundering and data protection issues, often trying to establish the correct course of action to take when third parties - including the police - request data.

Lester says what should be disclosed (and what isn’t necessary) in order to comply with Consumer Protection Regulations is a common concern. 

The association is emphasising that the Lawline can help with more day to day issues than simply HR and terms of business, and is encouraging members to make contact - Lawline is a service provided as part of the membership package, so there is no additional fee.

The England and Wales number is 01926 338882; in Scotland it is 01413 329988.