EAQE Estate agency agreements and prescribed forms question: agent to keep the keys

EAA EAQEEstate agency agreements and prescribed forms

Under Form 3, a vendor ticks the option allowing the agent to keep the keys of her vacant flat. What does that allow the agent to do?

A Hold them to arrange viewings, keep them safe and return them
B Let friends stay in the flat while it is on the market
C Copy the keys for any other agency that asks
D Change the locks if the vendor is late in paying the agreed commission

Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A. Hold them to arrange viewings, keep them safe and return them

Answer: Hold the keys to arrange viewings, keeping them safely and returning them. Why not the others: - Letting friends stay: Far outside the authority given. - Copying keys for other agencies: Sub-listing and sharing require the vendor's consent; copying keys freely breaches the client's trust. - Changing the locks: An agent has no such right. Rule: The prescribed forms include optional clauses on the agent holding keys and arranging inspections; the agent must use the keys only for the agreed purpose and act in the client's interests. Source: Practice Regulation (Cap. 511C), Form 3 and section 10; EAA Code of Ethics, paragraph 3.4.1; as at Oct 2026

Common mistake

Treating custody of keys as wide authority over the property.

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An original question written to the published EAQE syllabus. Figures in the explanation carry their effective dates; check them against the current law before relying on them. Independent exam practice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the Estate Agents Authority (EAA) or the examination administrator.