Search Code Marks 20 Years of Protecting Consumers Through Trusted Quality Standards
The Search Code today celebrates its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of delivering high standards, transparency and consumer protection across the property search industry.
Since its introduction in 2006, the Search Code has provided a robust framework of quality standards designed to safeguard consumers and promote excellence among search providers. The Code has played a vital role in ensuring that homebuyers, property owners and legal professionals can access reliable, accurate and consistent property information with confidence. All subscribers to the Search Code are independently regulated by the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB).
Over the past 20 years, the Search Code has continuously evolved to reflect changes in the property market, advances in technology and the growing expectations of consumers. By setting clear standards for data quality, customer service, complaint handling and professional conduct, the Code has helped strengthen trust throughout the conveyancing process.
CoPSO Chair, Allison Bradbury said:
"The 20th anniversary of the Search Code is an opportunity to reflect on the significant contribution it has made to raising standards and protecting consumers. For two decades, the Code has provided an important benchmark for quality, helping to ensure that consumers receive the reliable information they need when making one of the most important financial decisions of their lives."
The Search Code's independent governance arrangements and commitment to continuous improvement have helped establish it as a respected standard within the industry. Its requirements provide assurance that subscribers operate transparently, deliver high-quality search reports and maintain effective processes for addressing customer concerns.
As the property market continues to evolve, the Search Code remains committed to working with industry partners, search providers, legal professionals and consumer groups to uphold standards and foster innovation while keeping consumer protection at the heart of its work.
Looking ahead, the Code will continue to support best practice across the search industry, ensuring that consumers benefit from accurate information, clear communication and high levels of service for many years to come.
About the Search Code
The Search Code is a recognised set of quality standards for organisations providing property search reports. It is designed to promote transparency, accuracy and consumer protection and to provide confidence for consumers and professionals involved in property transactions. It is independently regulated by the Property Codes Compliance Board (PCCB).