Understanding the Building Safety Act 2022: Key Changes and What They Mean for You
The Building Safety Act 2022 represents a major shift in how we approach building safety in the UK, with a particular focus on high-rise buildings.
Could fewer rental properties be the price of positive action for tenants?
The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to overhaul tenancy laws in England and Wales, promising stronger protections for tenants, including an end to ‘Section 21’ repossessions. Now in its second reading in the House of Lords, the legislation aims to curb unfair evictions, but concerns are growing that it could unintentionally shrink the rental market.
Trustees – What responsibilities do they have
Trustees have a wide range of responsibilities when administering the trust estate under their charge. What is a trustee? A trustee is a person or a firm that holds and administers property or assets held in a trust for the benefit of a third party. A trust can be created for a variety of purposes. For example, trusts can be established in bankruptcy situations or in certain types of retirement plans or to manage assets for a minor or someone lacking capacity. Alternatively, a trust may be established to hold…
The importance of getting independent legal advice
There are numerous situations where seeking independent legal advice is not only advisable but essential to protect the rights, interests, and well-being of the individuals and businesses involved.
What do business owners need to know before signing a new commercial property lease?
Understanding your legal rights as a commercial tenant is vital before committing to a lease for your business premises. Mert Sumbul considers the impact of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. What is the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954? The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 is a significant law governing the relationship between landlords and tenants in commercial properties. It outlines the duties and rights of both parties in leases for business premises. Here, we’ll focus on how it affects tenants, as the Act provides specific protections that can be…
Rights of way & agricultural land
The public have a right to roam much of the great outdoors in England. Open access land includes areas like downland, heathland, and mountains where the public can walk freely. However, unlike Scotland, there is no universal right to roam most of the land for recreational purposes. In England, the public have rights of access to land over established rights of way. What is a right of way? A right of way is a right enjoyed by the public to cross over someone else’s land. In a rural setting, that…
Selling part of your garden/property
If you own property which has surplus land, a large garden or a plot adjacent to it you might consider selling part of it off to make some money.
Changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax in the 2024 Budget
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled the first Budget of the Labour government. The Chancellor revealed that the rate of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) payable on the acquisition of additional dwellings (a second home) by individuals, or the purchase of dwellings by companies is to increase. These transactions will now be subject to an additional rate of 5% above the standard residential rates of SDLT, increasing from the previous surcharge of 3%. What is a second property? A second property is a residential property purchased in addition to your main…
Challenges with Conveyancing Cases– Practical Insights for Navigating the Process
Conveyancing, the legal process of transferring property ownership, has always had its complexities.
Declaration of Trust and the enforcement of charging orders
A recent case considering the enforcement of charging orders and the validity of a Declaration of Trust has highlighted the complexities surrounding property and trust matters in an insolvency.