BALMA - Code of Conduct

BALMA Code of Practice

A member will provide services to all concerned without regard to consideration of race, ethnic or national origins, sex or disability.
In particular members will not act on discriminatory instruction or pressure and will as far as practical follow the Race Relations Code of Practice in Rented Housing. (Keeping in line with government guidelines as laid down in the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1974, Accommodation Agencies Act section 137, Housing Act 1988 Section 180. Local Government Housing Act 1987).
Every member should keep at least one bank account (Client Account) which shall be separate from the trading account(s). Any money held in such an account shall not be available for the trading purposes of the firm or the security for a loan or for any other purpose, save where specifically authorised by the client.
Every member shall comply and conform to the content and spirit of the Constitution of the Association, a copy should be kept available at the agent's office.
A member should keep proper written accounts to show dealings as they relate to individual clients.
Every member shall be under a duty to avoid any act which involves dishonesty or behaviour of an unscrupulous or deceitful nature which shows moral unfitness to be a managing agent or in any way brings the Association into disrepute.
Members agree when letting property not to demand a sum of money in consideration of supplying particulars of houses or flats to let. A fee shall only become payable when tenancy is formally accepted.
A member shall not seek to conduct business by methods which are designed to take unfair advantage of any weakness or ignorance on part of any person.
A members shall use all diligence looking after its client's interest and shall take all reasonable steps to protect and promote its client's interests.
A member shall ensure that each client is aware from the outset of the terms and conditions upon which its services are supplied.
Before accepting instructions a member shall disclose in writing to his client any existing conflict of interest or circumstances likely to give rise to a conflict of interest or circumstances likely to give rise to a conflict or interest.

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