The Consumers Association has accused some estate agents of breaking the law and using misleading contracts when they sell houses.

Forum Response: Consumers Association

Helen Parker, editor of Which?, said: "Our undercover investigation cast light on parts of the house-buying process the public doesn't usually see, with worrying results.

"Which? would like to hear from people who have been stung by estate agents so that we can work to put an end to their dirty tricks.

"Without anybody checking to ensure they are behaving competently and honestly, some estate agents are routinely getting away with using dodgy contracts and even breaking the law."

Forum Response: National Association of Estate Agents

Melfyn Williams, president of the NAEA, said: "The public should look for the NAEA logo as a seal of approval, similar to ABTA in the travel industry, when choosing an agent to handle their property matters.

"To the majority, their property is their biggest and most important asset; the homeowners of the UK deserve to at least expect an agent to follow best practice, codes of conduct and minimum standards of competence."