ARLA / Introduction

ARLA, The Association of Residential Letting Agents, is the industry's governing body which sets policies and promotes industry standards and best practice. Licensed ARLA agents must comply with ARLA's regulations and strict code of practice.

Training

ARLA defines and controls the industry's training and examination programmes. The industry qualification, The Technical Award in Residential Lettings, comprises an exacting four part programme of study and examination. It is both comprehensive and demanding and it has greatly enhanced the status of the profession and the qualified individuals practicing within it. 

The Property Ombudsman Scheme (TPO)

In order to be ARLA licensed, an agent must belong to a recognised Independent Redress Scheme.  Each Dorset Lettings office is a member of The Property Ombudsman Scheme (TPO) Lettings.  The TPO provides a free independent service dealing with disputes between member agents and landlords or tenants of property in the UK. Member agents must follow The Property Ombudsman Letting Code of Practice, which sets out the framework within which member agents should operate and the standards of service they need to provide for both landlords and tenants.