Estate agents in the UK must follow the Money Laundering Regulations and are supervised by HMRC. This means we must check the identity of the people we act for and, when an offer is accepted, the buyer too. Your solicitor will do their own checks. It's the law, not a sign of mistrust.
What to have ready
- A valid passport or national identity card.
- Proof of your home address (for example a recent bank statement or utility bill).
- Proof of funds — bank statements, a mortgage offer, or evidence of a sale or gift.
- Source of funds and wealth — how you built up the money (savings, salary, sale of property, inheritance).
- If money comes from a gift, a letter and ID from the person giving it.
Documents not in English may need a certified translation. Ask your solicitor.
Source: GOV.UK – Money Laundering Regulations: your responsibilities.
Sources checked 16 October 2026: GOV.UK pages linked above. Rules change — always confirm with your solicitor.