Registration is not regulatory approval
Companies House records establish registered company information and filings. They do not certify fair dealing, financial strength or that a firm has funds for your purchase.
A review score or membership badge is also not a government approval. Ask for the legal entity and verify any claim with the named organisation.
Check exactly what membership covers
A redress code applies to businesses within its scope that have agreed or are required to comply. Ask which scheme covers the buyer, whether the entity is currently a member and what kinds of complaints it accepts.
Trade association membership and a redress scheme serve different purposes. Neither should replace your solicitor’s review of the actual contract and available funds.
Understand your own protection
Obtain written offers and charges, take independent advice before restrictions are signed and retain a record of changes. Use the company’s complaints process and check scheme eligibility if a dispute develops.
The CMA/OFT quick-sale investigation provides historical evidence of risks, not a current survey of all firms. No company is endorsed by this site.
Sources & review
Last reviewed:
No universal accreditation or safe-buyer list is claimed. Verify the actual entity, funds and current scheme membership. A registration or badge does not guarantee conduct or price.
- MoneyHelper — Quick house sales
Government-backed guidance: quick-sale companies usually buy for less than a regular sale would achieve, may offer much less than market value, and many are unregulated.
- CMA / OFT — Quick house sales investigation
Historical investigation (2013–14): quick-sale firms usually buy at a discount; undertakings address misleading offers, price reductions and completion promises. This is not a current market-price or speed survey.
- The Property Ombudsman — Property Buying Companies Code (March 2026)
A code for businesses within its scope that have agreed or are required to comply, not proof that all cash buyers are regulated or members.
Review dates record our source check, not the date a rule took effect. Rules can change; check the linked guidance before acting. Legal processes differ across the UK.