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

Property Sector Urged to Respond to Government Smart Data Consultation

Organisations in the home buying sector have been called on to respond to the government's consultation on smart data schemes and their use in the property market. The consultation, which is open until 1 October 2026, seeks views on how smart data could be used in the sector.

The Open Property Data Association (OPDA) has stated that input from the property industry will help shape the future of property data sharing. According to the OPDA, smart data could enable firms to share information securely with consumers and businesses, potentially reducing delays in property transactions and making the process more efficient.

This call for engagement follows the government's publication of its Home Buying and Selling Roadmap, which outlines plans to reform property transactions through digitisation and mandated data sharing standards.

Maria Harris, chair of the OPDA, said in a recent interview with Mortgage Solutions that professionals across the property and mortgage sectors need to prepare for changes to the home buying process. She emphasised the importance of industry engagement to ensure sufficient understanding and influence in the government's plans.

The OPDA warned that without input from organisations directly delivering services to consumers, important decisions could be made without adequate industry representation. The association encouraged every organisation with an interest in shaping the future of property data to read the consultation and submit a response.

The government’s smart data programme is intended to provide the legislative, policy, and governance framework for data-sharing schemes. The OPDA noted that ongoing work in the property sector, including the delivery of the Home Buying and Selling Roadmap and the development of smart property data standards, can help inform the design and implementation of these schemes.

The consultation is being run by the Department for Business and Trade as part of its Smart Data Multi-Sector Call for Evidence.