Can I change estate agents in the UK, and what is the process?
Yes, you can change estate agents in the UK if you are not satisfied with the service provided. The first step is to check your contract to find out if there are tie-in periods, commission terms, or notice clauses. Once you know your obligations, provide notice in writing, and make sure you receive confirmation of the termination. Then choose a new estate agent who aligns with your expectations, offers effective marketing, and communicates clearly.
What We Have Covered In This Article?
- Can I change estate agents in the UK?
- Why this question matters more than you think
- Is it legal to change estate agents in the UK?
- Common signs it’s time to switch estate agents
- What is a tie-in period and how does it affect your ability to switch agents?
- Can you change estate agents during a sale of tenancy?
- Tips for avoiding dual fees when switching agents
- Final thoughts – you have more control than you think
Why This Question Matters More Than You Think
The Financial and Emotional Cost of Staying with the Wrong Agent
Being tied to an underperforming estate agent in London can hold your property back. It often leads to lower offers, long periods without viewings, and a general sense of frustration. Sellers and landlords may feel overlooked or sidelined, especially when updates are irregular or non-existent.
London’s Fast Market Needs Agents Who Keep Up
In a city like London, where demand shifts quickly, a slow response from an agent can mean missed opportunities. A well-priced and well-marketed home should not sit idle. If it does, it may point to a lack of reach, poor digital presence, or pricing that does not reflect local buyer behaviour.
This Guide Offers Real Help for Property Owners in London
This guide helps you understand your legal rights and what to expect from a better-performing agent. It explains technical details about sole agency clauses, multi-agency risks, and the rules around commission claims. You will also learn how to handle the switch mid-sale or mid-tenancy without disruption.
Pro Tip: Keep every communication with your current agent in writing. This gives you a paper trail and protects you in case of any dispute over fees or notice periods.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Is It Legal to Change Estate Agents in the UK?
Your Rights as a Seller or Landlord
Switching agents is legal and often straightforward, provided you follow the rules in your contract. Most agreements will outline your obligations. These typically include a tie-in period, a notice requirement, and in some cases, a future liability clause. These are all standard in agency contracts and do not prevent you from making a change if you are unhappy.
Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading
Under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, you have the right to expect fair treatment. If your agent promised regular updates, professional photography, or exposure on all major portals but failed to deliver, you might be able to end the agreement without penalty. Keep a record of what was promised and what was delivered. These details matter if there is a dispute.
What Estate Agency Contracts Usually Contain
Estate agency contracts can be one of three types: sole agency, sole selling rights, or multi-agency. A sole agency contract means you can only instruct one agent at a time, but you might not owe commission if you find a buyer yourself. A sole selling rights contract means commission is due even if you find the buyer. Multi-agency gives you the freedom to use several agents but usually comes with higher fees. Contracts also include notice periods, which vary between 14 and 28 days. Some also have future liability clauses where the original agent can claim commission if the buyer was first introduced by them.
Switch to a Better Estate Agent Today
Unhappy with your current agent? Let Barrain help you sell faster and smarter with expert marketing and local knowledge.
Common Signs It’s Time to Switch Estate Agents
Poor or No Communication
An agent who fails to return calls or give proper updates makes the process harder than it needs to be. Communication should feel easy. You should always know what your agent is doing to promote your home, whether that involves viewings, feedback, or advertising.
Unrealistic Asking Prices
Some agents suggest inflated asking prices to win your business. When properties are overpriced, interest drops, and the listing goes stale. Buyers browsing platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla often skip properties that have been listed for too long without price movement. This is where a pricing strategy backed by data can make a big difference.
Weak Marketing and Few Viewings
If your property has poor photos, a weak listing description, or limited exposure across property websites, viewings will be limited. Properties listed without a floorplan or professional photography often underperform. Marketing needs to be sharp, visible, and active. If this is lacking, it may be time for a new agent.
Your Concerns Are Dismissed
When questions go unanswered and your concerns are brushed aside, trust starts to erode. An agent should listen, give you clear advice, and involve you in key decisions. You are entitled to feel heard and supported throughout the process.
Old-Fashioned Approach
If your agent is only using one website and does not include social media promotion or mobile-friendly advertising, that is a missed opportunity. Modern buyers expect to view properties online across multiple platforms. That includes mainstream portals as well as social platforms and agent websites. If your agent is not meeting this standard, you could be missing out.
To find out how our service compares or to start with a property review, visit our selling with Barrain page for more details.
What is a tie-in period and how does it affect your ability to switch agents?
What Tie-In Periods Really Mean
A tie-in period is the initial fixed term where your property must remain with the same agent. These usually last between two to eight weeks but can sometimes stretch longer, especially with sole selling rights contracts. During this time, you are typically not allowed to list the property with another agent. If you breach this term, the original agent may still be entitled to their full commission, even if another agency completes the sale.
Notice Requirements Explained
Once the tie-in period ends, most contracts shift to a rolling agreement that can be terminated with written notice. The notice period can range from seven to twenty-eight days depending on the agency. Always give notice in writing and request written confirmation. This ensures a clear record in case of a later dispute. Keep all emails and any responses to avoid confusion about the end date of your agreement.
Future Liability Clauses and Dual Fees
A future liability clause is a contract term that allows an agent to claim commission if they introduced a buyer who later completes the purchase. This clause may still apply even if you change agents. For example, if the buyer viewed the property while it was listed with your first agent but comes back through another agent and makes an offer, the original agent might still have a legal claim to their fee. Understanding how this clause is written in your contract is essential to avoiding dual commission payments.
If you’re not sure what your contract allows or how long your tie-in lasts, we can help. Our team reviews contracts for clients switching to Barrain so they avoid unnecessary costs. You can contact us or learn more about switching on our Barrain contract support page.
Step-by-step: How do you change estate agents without legal or financial issues?
Step 1: Read and Understand Your Contract
Start by reviewing your current agreement. Focus on the tie-in period, notice clauses, and liability terms. If any part of the contract is unclear, get a second opinion. You are allowed to ask a legal adviser or experienced agent to check it with you. Knowing your contractual position helps you avoid unexpected fees.
Step 2: Give Written Notice and Confirm Receipt
Once you’re confident about your rights, prepare a formal written notice to terminate the agreement. Include your full name, property address, and the date you intend the agreement to end. Make sure you send this by email and ask for a written confirmation. Keep all correspondence for your records.
Step 3: Choose a New Agent with Proven Experience
Before you sign with a new estate agent, take time to compare your options. Look for agents who show results through recent sales, online reviews, and professional marketing. Do not rely on a high valuation alone. Ask questions about their marketing plan, communication schedule, and how they approach pricing strategy.
Step 4: Avoid Overlapping Listings
To prevent confusion, coordinate the end of your previous agreement with the start of your new one. This avoids double listings, which can mislead buyers and cause portal penalties. If the property needs to be taken down briefly for a reset, agree a clear date with both agents. This keeps your listing fresh and avoids contractual conflict.
To find a proven agent in your area, contact Barrain Estate Agents London for advice and no-obligation support. We help sellers transition smoothly with no stress and no double fees.
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Our team can help you understand your estate agent agreement and avoid costly dual fees.
Can you change estate agents during a sale or tenancy?
Changing Agents Mid-Sale
Yes, it is possible to switch estate agents during a property sale. If your property is already listed, first confirm that the tie-in period has passed and that you are outside of any minimum term commitment. Once you’ve met that condition, check the notice period and give formal written notice to your current agent. Be specific about the end date and request written confirmation.
Coordinating the timing is important. Make sure the old listing is taken down before the new one goes live. This prevents duplication across property portals and avoids confusion among potential buyers. A reset can also help revive interest, especially if the previous listing had poor photos or weak descriptions. A fresh strategy, clearer communication, and a realistic asking price can attract more motivated buyers.
Changing Letting Agents Mid-Tenancy
Landlords can also change letting agents while a tenant remains in the property. The tenancy agreement remains in place with the tenant, but you as the landlord have the right to change who manages the property. Your agency agreement, however, may include fixed terms or termination clauses, so check these carefully.
If you are unhappy with how your agent handles maintenance, rent collection, or compliance, you are within your rights to seek a better service. Just ensure there is a smooth handover so tenants continue to feel supported. Notify them in writing and provide contact details for the new managing agent.
At Barrain, our team helps landlords make this change without interrupting tenancy conditions. We contact tenants directly, manage the switchover process, and keep everything aligned with legal obligations. You can find more information about our services for landlords on our Barrain landlord page.
Tips for Avoiding Dual Fees When Switching Agents
Understand Who Introduced the Buyer or Tenant
A dual fee situation arises when two agents claim commission for the same sale or let. This can happen if the buyer or tenant was introduced by the original agent but completes the transaction while the new agent is handling the process. Always ask both agents to confirm in writing who has introduced which parties.
Use Clear Cut-Off Dates
To prevent disputes, make sure there is a clear handover date agreed by both agents. The new agent should only start marketing once the previous agreement has fully ended. Listing overlap is one of the most common reasons agents later claim a share of the commission.
Keep Records of All Viewings and Enquiries
Maintain a list of all people who viewed your property during the previous agent’s instruction. Most agents will already provide this. If someone reappears later and makes an offer, you will be able to determine if that lead originated from the previous agent or the new one.
Ask for Written Terms from the New Agent
Before signing with a new agency, ask for clarification in writing that they do not require commission on buyers or tenants previously introduced by another agent. This protects you in the event of a conflict.
At Barrain, we handle this upfront. We review your previous agent’s activity to make sure there is no overlap or risk of being charged twice. This gives you confidence and financial protection during the switch.
Pro Tip: Ask your new agent for a written statement confirming they won’t claim commission on buyers or tenants introduced by a previous agent. This avoids unexpected costs later.
Ehab Barrain
Managing Director at Barrain Estate Agents London
Final Thoughts: You Have More Control Than You Think
Many sellers and landlords feel stuck with an estate agent who is not delivering. But your contract rarely locks you in permanently. You have options, and with the right guidance, you can move to a better agent without hassle or penalty.
Barrain Estate Agents London helps clients regain control of their sale or let. We combine local knowledge, strong communication, and a proven track record to give your property the attention it deserves. Whether you’re looking to improve your results or simply want better service, switching agents can be a smart move.
If you’re unsure where to begin or want your current contract reviewed, speak to one of our advisors today. We’re happy to help without any pressure to commit. Start with a quick message or request a free consultation at Barrain Estate Agents Contact Page.
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