Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by PropertyWire. Read the original article for full details.

Estate Agents Voice Fears of Retaliation in Rightmove Class Action

Estate agents have raised concerns about possible commercial repercussions if they provide evidence in a £1.5 billion class action lawsuit against Rightmove, according to testimony at the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Lawyers for the claimants told the tribunal that a “significant number” of agents are worried about “adverse commercial consequences” if they participate in the legal proceedings.

Details of the Class Action

The class action has been brought by Jeremy Newman, a former panel member of the Competition and Markets Authority and director of the Clarion Housing Group. Since the action was announced in November last year, more than 250 estate agencies across Britain have reportedly expressed support for the claim. The lawsuit alleges that Rightmove abused its dominant position as a property portal by charging estate agents “excessive” and “unfair subscription fees”. The action is being taken on behalf of thousands of agents who claim they were overcharged by the platform.

Concerns Over Commercial Relationships

According to the Financial Times, Jeremy Newman stated in a witness statement that estate agents had “expressed a concern that they might face retaliatory conduct from Rightmove or that their commercial relationship with Rightmove would be jeopardised should their name be made public or associated with the claim”.

Rightmove’s Response

A barrister representing Rightmove told the tribunal that the company “completely rejects the suggestion” of retaliation. The barrister stated that Rightmove “sees them [agents] as partners” and that “it would be shooting itself in the foot” if it retaliated. A Rightmove spokesperson said the company is confident in the value it provides to partners and consumers, and that it “completely rejects the idea that we would retaliate against any agents who engaged with Mr Newman’s proposed class action”. Rightmove stated that the claim is “without merit” and that it will “defend it vigorously”.

Market Implications

The case highlights tensions in the UK property sector, where estate agents rely on portal listings to reach buyers and renters. The outcome could have significant implications for how property portals price their services and interact with agents. The tribunal hearing marks the first formal stage in what could be a lengthy legal process affecting thousands of estate agencies nationwide.