The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS) has made a play to be one of the main providers of professional standards ahead of Government plans to create minimum standards in the sector.

NALS has launched a new training course for agents, the Level 3 Award in Letting and Property Management (England).

It comes amid Government plans to require all letting agents to obtain a nationally recognised qualification to practise.

NALS courses for letting agents in Wales and Scotland already meet the required regulatory requirements for each country, and its latest qualification is backed by awarding body NCFE.

The course, which can be done online, comprises ten units with a final test. Candidates who successfully complete the Level 3 will receive an NCFE certificate, and if they are employed by a NALS member firm, can use the designation “NALS Qualified”.

It is open to all, costing £300 plus VAT for NALS members and £350 plus VAT for non members.

The qualification covers:

1. Pre tenancy issues relating to letting residential property

2. Responsibilities and liabilities relating to letting residential property

3. Setting up a residential tenancy

4. During a residential tenancy

5. Ending a residential tenancy

6. General law concepts

7. Parties’ obligations relating to letting residential property

8. Viewings and check-ins of residential property

9. Explore considerations for corporate tenants

10. Explore general insurance and other financial considerations

Isobel Thomson, chief executive of NALS, said: “We’re very proud to offer the Level 3 Award which builds on NALS’ existing successful Foundation Lettings Courses for England, Scotland and Wales.

“We want to support agents in developing their skills. It’s important that we can offer industry training which is not only of the highest standard, but also fully online – suiting the learning needs of employers and employees at a reasonable cost.”