OPDA signs MoU with The Society of Licensed Conveyancers to drive collaboration

Source: bClear Communications

The Open Property Data Association (OPDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Society of Licensed Conveyancers (SLC), formalising a new partnership designed to promote closer collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the two organisations and the broader property sector.

The MoU sets out a shared commitment between the two organisations to advance the digital transformation of the home buying and selling process. It aims to encourage the use of Open Data standards, improve interoperability between systems and support the delivery of more transparent, efficient and consumer-friendly property transactions.

Both organisations have been key advocates for innovation and reform within the sector. The partnership will see OPDA and the SLC working together to identify areas where data-led solutions and consistent digital frameworks can reduce duplication, cut transaction times and strengthen consumer confidence in the process.

Maria Harris, chair, Open Property Data Association

Maria Harris, chair of OPDA, said: “The SLC plays a crucial role in representing conveyancers at the heart of the home buying process and we’re delighted to be working together to help deliver a more digital and connected property market.

“Through this partnership, we’ll be able to align our efforts to make data more accessible and interoperable, reduce friction between stakeholders and ultimately make moving home simpler and more transparent for everyone involved.”

The SLC believes it is imperative that conveyancers are deeply involved in the development of open property data standards and the MoU with OPDA is an important stepping stone for this. OPDA brings together representatives from all the professions and industries involved in the property buying and selling process and the Society is delighted to bring the input of licensed conveyancers to the table.

Simon Law, SLC chairperson, said: “OPDA has come a long way in a relatively short period of time, and the Association will make a very important contribution to the Government’s clear intent to streamline the home buying and selling process.

“SLC members’ firms are at the forefront of adoption of enabling technology and it makes eminently good sense for the Society to contribute to OPDA’s work.”

The MoU is part of OPDA’s broader mission to support cross-industry co-operation, bringing together stakeholders from across estate agency, conveyancing, surveying, lending and technology to build an open, trusted framework for property data.

Further reading: Raidiam and OPDA partner to digitise UK property transactions