Countrywide is introducing the ARLA Level 2 qualification throughout its branch network. 

All customer-facing lettings staff who joined the business on or after June 1 this year will be enrolled in the Level 2 Residential Lettings training programme.

“This is a great opportunity for our colleagues across the group to achieve a recognised qualification which will benefit both our customers and their own career development.  Providing them with the knowledge and confidence to fulfill their role is essential, particularly in this highly regulated industry. We have always enjoyed a very close relationship with ARLA, RICS and NALS and this further supports our commitment to the impending industry regulations which are of vital importance to the industry” explains John Hards, group lettings director.

While new staff will be expected to complete the qualification within 12 months of joining, the qualification is also open to Countrywide’s existing staff.

Countrywide says it’s been working with AgencyPro and Propertymark to develop acourse for the Level 2 qualification covering: Introduction to lettings practice and property management, General Law, Health, Safety and Security and Customer Service. 

The material is available for download so the qualification can be completed at the candidates’ own pace whilst being supported by their managers.

“I’m delighted to see the first of our new starters gain this qualification. At Countrywide the training and development of our staff is a priority. It’s crucial for our colleagues to achieve an industry recognised qualification so they are able to offer the best possible customer service while showing that they have a thorough understanding of industry regulations and compliance” explains Mark Summers, head of operations at AgencyPro, who worked to develop the training course.