Hundreds of estate agents across the United Kingdom have rallied behind a substantial legal claim targeting property portal giant Rightmove, with damages sought amounting to approximately £1.5 billion. The case has been formally lodged with the Competition Appeal Tribunal, marking a significant escalation in the dispute over subscription fees.
Legal Action Gains Momentum
The claim is spearheaded by Jeremy Newman, a former panel member of the UK's competition watchdog, who reported an "extremely encouraging response" from estate agents since the action was first announced in November. According to the group behind the case, around 250 businesses nationwide have expressed interest and support for the legal challenge.
"Filing this claim today advances the route to meaningful compensation for those businesses who have had very little choice but to absorb excessive fee increases for many years," Mr Newman stated. The claim alleges that Rightmove has abused its dominant position in the UK online property portal market by imposing excessive and unfair subscription fees on thousands of estate agents and new home developers.
Rightmove's Response and Market Position
Rightmove swiftly responded to the filing, asserting confidence in the value it provides to partners and consumers. The company emphasised its role in fostering market transparency, liquidity, and confidence through its platform. "As one of the most efficient parts of the UK housing market, we help people across the UK to move home by bringing buyers, sellers, renters, landlords and agents together," a spokesperson said.
The firm categorically denied the allegations, declaring, "This claim is without merit and we will defend it vigorously." Rightmove highlighted its market dominance, noting that it boasts the UK's largest selection of properties for sale and rent, with around 80% of all time spent on property portals occurring on its site.
Financial Implications and Scrutiny
Based on the estimated total damages and the scale of the class action, it is understood that the claim assumes agents can be charged thousands of pounds in fees to use Rightmove. This legal challenge follows previous scrutiny, including a petition last year that garnered over 2,000 signatures calling for an investigation into Rightmove's pricing model.
Critics have accused the company of squeezing small businesses and independent agencies with fees that are reportedly higher than those paid by corporate chains. The case is being funded by specialist litigation funder Innsworth Capital Limited, with legal support from Scott+Scott UK.
Market Reaction and Corporate Performance
Shares in Rightmove experienced a decline of about 5% following the news of the case being filed. Despite the legal headwinds, the FTSE 100-listed firm reported robust financial performance, with an operating profit of £288 million in 2025, representing a 12% increase from the previous year.
The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for the property portal market and the broader estate agency sector, potentially reshaping fee structures and competitive dynamics in the industry.
