About the PCCB

The role of the PCCB

Formed in 2006, the PCCB is an independent compliance body. Our primary role is to maintain a register of firms that choose to subscribe to the Search and/or HIP Codes of Practice and to independently monitor their compliance with the Codes. Subscription to the Codes is not mandatory but the vast majority of search and HIP products in the market are produced by Code subscribers. PCCB is a not for profit organisation with a public interest majority on its Board and is funded entirely from the subscription fees paid by registered firms.

How do we check compliance?

We will independently monitor compliance with the Codes by property search and HIP providers and assess the extent of compliance of each subscriber. Any adverse reports are followed up to ensure matters have been corrected. In some cases, disciplinary action will be taken. We check compliance via a range of methods:

• Upon initial registration, applicants must submit for checking; sample searches and/or HIPs, Compliance Statement(s) signed by senior executives, consumer Terms and Conditions and evidence of appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance.
• Upon registration renewal, applicants must submit for checking; complaints procedures, Compliance Statement(s) signed by senior executives and evidence of appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance with any relevant claims history.
• Desktop Audits.
• Physical compliance inspections

These compliance inspections:

• review compliance controls and business procedures.
• check details of search reports and Home Information Packs.
• review customer care procedures and handling.
• include market research activities.
• monitor the media and complaints to both Registered Firms and the The Property Ombudsman scheme (TPOs).

What if there is a breach of the Codes?

If a consumer believes there is a breach of the Codes they may either address this via the firm’s complaints procedure or direct to the PCCB. We will refer any allegations of breaches of the Codes to the search or HIP provider so they can take appropriate action and we may take further action if merited. Each Code subscriber must have procedures in place to deal with complaints such as Code breaches speedily and fairly. If there is a failure to comply with the Codes, the PCCB can use its disciplinary measures.
See Registration Rules

Will the PCCB deal with my complaint?

Every Code subscriber will have a formal complaints scheme and you should go through this first to give the firm an opportunity to consider your complaint. If you do not accept the decision reached or there is no final response within the stated timescale, you can take your complaint to the The Property Ombudsman scheme (TPOs) (TPOs). Every Code subscriber is obliged to give you details of the TPO Scheme.

What the PCCB can do >