From time to time there are instances of estate agents being mugged by criminals pretending to be interested in listed properties and demanding an inspection. Cases are now in the hands of the Police and the Crime Prevention Bureau advises practitioners to be always on the alert, noting in particular the following measures which will hopefully help reduce the number of such crimes:

• Check and record the Identity Card details of the client.
• Whenever possible, show properties by two agents.
• Demand a contact telephone number from the client and check validity of the number before the inspection.
• Keep colleagues informed of details of the property inspection and stay in touch with the office.
• Do not carry too much cash, or wear valuable watches and jewellery.
• Instal closed circuit television facilities in the office so as to capture the image of every client who calls in.