We’ve been members of ARLA for many years and have always valued their support. However, we were particularly impressed by how insightful, helpful, and informative Darren’s recent visit and au... See more
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An audit I had mixed feelings about, given we'd never had one and whilst knowing it would be a benefit of the business still felt quite anxious about it. Thought Darren demonstrated knowledge and appe... See more
We recently had a Propertymark audit with Darren Kitchenside, and the whole experience was extremely positive. Darren’s friendly and engaging manner immediately put us at ease, making what could... See more
We had an audit with Darren Kitchenside, he was friendly, approachable and instantly put us at ease. We found the audit to be both constructive and very informative, he was well organised with a wealt... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
ARLA Propertymark is the UK's foremost professional body for letting agents and we are raising the standards in residential lettings. We have thousands of letting agents choosing to be members of ARLA Propertymark to provide a great service to tenants and landlords. Our membership standards are higher than the law demands. Part of Propertymark, which also looks after estate agents, inventories and auctions, we're trying to boost standards and campaign for a fair, transparent lettings industry and benefits everyone looking to buy, sell or rent a home.
Contact info
CV34 6LG, Warwick, United Kingdom
- communications@propertymark.co.uk
- arla.co.uk
Compliance Audit
Compliance Audit
Darren came in to the office for a review of our compliance - he was extremely helpful and it was a positive experience.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Like a full blown compliance/ process consultation - for FREE!
I recently had an ARLA desktop review/ audit with Darren, and I was blown away with Darren's attention to detail and how useful the meeting was.
Firstly, Darren made me aware of the review in plenty of time, and provided excellent guidance on what we would cover and how I should prepare for the meeting. I just followed his steps and the audit side of the meeting went extremely smoothly as a result.
What I was not prepared for was that the rest of the meeting would basically take the form of a full compliance business review meeting from an expert, that I no doubt would have had to pay £1,000's for the pleasure of a management/ compliance consultant to conduct with me.
Darren told me that I didn't need to take notes during the meeting as he would provide detailed notes for me. Nonetheless, I scribbled down a few, as we covered a vast number of areas where I could even further improve the compliance and general processes of the businesses.
Just 2 days after the meeting I was amazed when I received Darren's "notes" - which essentially takes the form of a complete step-by-step guide to implement all of the extremely useful improvement suggestions that we discussed.
I now have an easy to follow guide that once implemented (which I am sure due to the detail provided will go smoothly) will hugely improve our business processes and compliance.
We also had a good laugh during the meeting sharing some ware stories in the field of compliance, and some horror stories from elsewhere to avoid!

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Propertymark Audit - Darren Kitchenside
Darren Kitchenside carried out our Propertymark Membership Audit in Feb 25 and I could not fault him. The information provided was relevant and useful, and Darren was great. He gave me simple instructions on what areas we needed to look at following legislation changes, and how to make the changes needed. He continued being there for support and guidance when implementing the changes following the audit as well. A very good service.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
We recently had our audit with…Propertymark
We recently had our audit with Propertymark which we were actually a little bit worried about but Darren made the whole process both relaxed but professional and we take comfort that we are operating a compliant and professional service to our clients whilst adhering to laws and regulations. Thanks Darren.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Darren Kitchenside visited our office…
Darren Kitchenside visited our office for the PropertyMark audit. He was very helpful and insightful. He was thorough with the audit and explained what he was doing step by step.
I wish him every success with ARLA Propertymark. It can be quite daunting having an Audit of your business but Darren is definitely the best man for the Job.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Darren Kitchenside visited our offices…
Darren Kitchenside visited our offices last week for our Propertymark audit. I have to say that Darren is a warm, friendly, funny, very knowledgeable and objective person. The whole process whizzed by and he has subsequently sent us lots of helpful links in order for us to keep right up to date with the current climate. This is a person that nothing is too much trouble for. He is a true asset to his organisation.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
A very helpful and useful experience.
Darren Kitchenside came along to our office earlier this week and it was a very helpful and useful experience.
You may think that the visit as a negative, but we found it so helpful and it simply highlighted the many things we already do correctly, some of the things we should be more mindful of and one or 2 things that the were now aware of. Basically a massive help in keeping our ducks in a line. Darren is both friendly and helpful and we thank him for the visit.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Propertymark Audit
Darren was very thorough and informative with his advice on what is legally required. We found this of great benefit and now feel more confident that we are compliant. Panic over!!

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Professional and Painless Audit
Rafael was clear and concise and we worked through the audit together without any issues. Communication was clear and the help provided was excellent and relevant

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
I recently underwent a compliance audit…
I recently underwent a compliance audit through my Propertymark membership with Rafael Torrano.
I must say that I was apprehensive with the lead up to the meeting, which I think is only natural, but as soon as we started the meeting Rafael made me feel very comfortable and at ease and clearly outlined the process and purpose of the meeting while engaging with me and my thoughts about it too.
There was a clear structure that we worked through together and the whole process was very enlightening.
My view is that we are always learning and I certainly took away from this experience some valuable information.
A very good overall experience.

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Compliance Audit Review Rafael Torrano
Compliance Audit Review Rafael Torrano
I recently participated in an audit and compliance review and found the whole process professional, informative, helpful and constructive. The review was conducted by a gentleman called Rafael Torrano who was excellent from start to finish. Not only was Rafael extremely professional and friendly, he also holds detailed knowledge of his industry, legal processes and all areas of the profession. His style of auditing is very helpful and he provided reassurance and guidance throughout the whole process. I have nearly 35 years experience in the property industry and came away from the audit with a feeling of comfort and enhanced expertise. Rafael is a credit to his employers and true professional.
Thanks again.
Andrew Fuller
Centurion Property Services
I recently had the pleasure of undergoing a compliance audit
I recently had the pleasure of undergoing a compliance audit with Propertymark, and I must say, the experience was incredibly beneficial for our company. Darren Kitchenside and his team provided invaluable guidance and support throughout the process.
Initially, I felt a lot of pressure and anxiety, almost like a student awaiting exam results. It seemed like a daunting shakeup where we might pass or fail. However, my apprehensions were quickly alleviated once the audit began. Darren’s approach was more like a mentorship than a strict examination.
Their thorough and insightful audit didn't just ensure compliance; it felt like a mentorship that helped us significantly improve our operations. Darren's detailed suggestions have equipped us with the tools and knowledge typically available to much larger companies. This has been instrumental in progressing our small business forward.
I felt reassured and supported every step of the way. Propertymark's commitment to helping agents maintain the highest standards is evident in their approach, and it's clear that they genuinely care about the success of their members. The resources and insights they provided were top-notch, making our partnership with Propertymark incredibly valuable.
I highly recommend Propertymark to any agency looking to enhance their compliance and operational standards. Their efforts are truly worthwhile, and the work they do is essential in fostering a professional and compliant industry. Thank you, Propertymark, for your continued guidance and support.
Harvey Juttla

Reply from ARLA Propertymark
Compliance Audit Review Rafael Torrano
I recently participated in an audit and compliance review and found the whole process professional, informative, helpful and constructive. The review was conducted by a gentleman called Rafael Torrano who was excellent from start to finish. Not only was Rafael extremely professional and friendly, he also holds detailed knowledge of his industry, legal processes and all areas of the profession. His style of auditing is very helpful and he provided reassurance and guidance throughout the whole process. I have nearly 30 years experience in the property industry and came away from the audit with a feeling of comfort and enhanced expertise. Rafael is a credit to his employers and true professional.
Thanks again.
Alex
Find Your Eden
Rafael was extremely professional yet…
Rafael was extremely professional yet he put me at ease immediately. He advised how we should improve and checked we were fully compliant. He guided us through step by step ensuring that by the time he left we knew exactly what to do to make sure we were fully compliant. Thank you Rafael
Darren Kitchenside
We recently had the pleasure of working with Darren Kitchenside from Propertymark for a compliance audit. The audit was conducted with utmost professionalism, and the level of detail in the report provided was outstanding. Darren was thorough, knowledgeable, and offered clear, actionable guidance that has been invaluable in helping us address and rectify the non-compliant areas within our operations. The insights and recommendations have set us on the right path towards full compliance. The entire process was handled with a high degree of expertise and care, making what could have been a stressful experience quite smooth and informative.
Propertymark - Audit
the initial email received from Propertymark was quiet strong however the follow up email from Darren did put my mind at ease. sent him all the documents before the visit therefore the meeting was very swift. very friendly, full of knowledge and experience and overall a lovely person to speak to
Audit
Rafael Torrano recently completed an Audit on my company and I found him informative and very helpful. He turned what I thought was a daunting task into a very helpful and informative exercise. I appreciated his friendly and practical help and guidance.
I recommend them to anyone in this industry!
Propertymark has been the most amazing resource for me as a new property manager; the conferences, helpline staff and office personnel who have helped me when I've emailed in, have all been wonderful and and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in this industry!
I especially would like to thanks Raphael for his support and guidance during our audit earlier this week; he gave really useful updates and helped ensure that I am able to achieve full compliance across all areas. Huge thank you for your help Raphael!
Rafael was extremely professional and friendly
Rafael was extremely professional and friendly during the audit. He answered all my questions thoroughly and clearly.
He was thorough with the audit and explained what he was doing step by step.
I wish him every success with ARLA Propertymark.
Recent Propertymark Audit
May I take this opportunity to thank Rafael for his patience and assistance during our recent review due to the technical link problem experienced on our part.
I would also like to add we both found the experience helpful and informative and appreciated the time Rafael took to clarify any queries on our parts.
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