Residents' Concerns over Unsolicited Door-to-door Approaches by Property Agents, Especially at HDB Estates Approaching MOP

Mr Alex Yeo asked the Minister for National Development in light of the industry-led memorandum of understanding (MOU) covering property flyers distribution at HDB estates (a) whether the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) has plans to similarly engage the industry on unsolicited door-to-door approaches by property agents, particularly at new HDB estates approaching the end of their minimum occupation period (MOP); and (b) whether a CEA-administered do-not-solicit notice placed on residents' doors with penalties for non-compliance can be considered.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The number of complaints to the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) on unsolicited door-to-door approaches by property agents has remained low. Property agents may carry out door-to-door prospecting as part of their overall marketing efforts. When doing so, they are expected to conduct themselves professionally, and exercise judgment and restraint. For instance, they should respect a home owner's wish not to be disturbed if a “Do Not Disturb” sign has been put up outside the home.

Where concerns have been raised, such as from residents in Housing and Development Board estates approaching the minimum occupation period, CEA has issued notices to remind agents to maintain proper conduct, and may also take disciplinary action in the event of breaches to the Code of Ethics and Professional Client Care.

CEA will continue to monitor feedback and work with the industry to assess whether additional measures are required.