NSW Fair Trading inspectors have issued $12,650 worth of fines to real estate agents across the state who failed to comply with laws related to sales and property management.
NSW Fair Trading Commissioner Rose Webb said the inspections conducted from 29 April to 2 May were part of Fair Trading’s routine real estate program.
“Fair Trading regularly conducts compliance programs to proactively monitor the industry’s adherence to the law, to increase professionalism and build consumer confidence in the sector,” Ms Webb said.
“The recent operation saw Fair Trading inspectors target 24 real estate agents across the Sydney metropolitan and Bathurst areas.”
Fair Trading inspectors found 19 real estate agents from areas in Bathurst, Blaney, Lithgow, Marrickville, Bankstown, Molong, Riverwood, Wolli Creek, Hurlstone Park and Hurstville did not comply with the law.
“Fair Trading inspectors issued a total of 12 penalty infringement notices, worth $12,650, for various breaches including unlicensed work and lack of proper supervision of business dealings,” Ms Webb said.
“In addition, there were seven warning letters issued for breaches relating to rules of conduct, signage and note taking in sales files.”
Ms Webb added that these operations are always a good opportunity for Fair Trading inspectors to educate and remind agents about their legislative obligations.
“This is the seventh real estate operation for 2019 and Fair Trading will continue to ensure agents are meeting their obligations under the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act 2002 and the Residential Tenancies Act 2010,” she said.
“If repeated non-compliance is identified, Fair Trading may consider more serious enforcement remedies.”
For more information about real estate agents’ obligations, visit the Fair Trading website www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or call 13 32 20.
