Don't deal with those who are not registered, Chan said.

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA) has sent a warning to property owners and buyers to be wary of engaging the services of unregistered negotiators and agents.

"We read with great interest and support the warning issued by the Malaysian Medical Council to be wary of those claiming to be a registered medical practitioner or a medical specialist," said MIEA president Chan Ai Cheng. 

She pointed out that the case was similar to the property industry's usage of registered real estate agents and negotiators. Based on the Valuers. Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers Act 1981, only individuals registered with the board and operating from registered firms are allowed to conduct estate agency practice. 

Chan warned property owners and buyers to do their due diligence before engaging the services of unregistered real estate agents or negotiators.

"There are thousands of individuals who claim to be practitioners without being registered or certified by the board," she said, adding that this is to avoid any untoward incidences.

The reason why the estate agency practice was given professional status through the Act is to ensure that the public is protected and practitioners are accountable for their actions. 

There is a registration number for every registered real estate agent, probationary estate agent and real estate negotiator who is certified by the board. 

The public can check to see if the individuals, who are offering their services, are registered on the board’s website at www.lppeh.gov.my to confirm their legitimate status. 

Do not deal with those who are not registered whether it is a doctor, lawyer, engineer or real estate practitioner, said Chan. 

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