Inside Housing
Briefings
Stories with this category.
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Decisive response
18/05/2012
Two cases show that courts will act robustly if tenants abuse the litigation process, says Jane Plant
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Mapping the full footprint
18/05/2012
How easily could your organisation calculate its complete carbon footprint? If the answer is ‘not very’, then a new worldwide standard could be just what you need. Elisabeth Jeffries looks at how it works
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Performance review
18/05/2012
The HCA’s new regulatory regime will focus on landlords’ governance and financial viability. Ian Davis and John Maton from Trowers and Hamlins explain.
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Q&A: The Ecological Sequestration Trust
18/05/2012
Eco-cities guru Peter Head has just left contractor Arup, where he headed an 800-strong global urban planning team, to set up a charity with the ambition to transform planning. Here he explains the thinking behind his latest project
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A compassionate ruling
11/05/2012
The High Court relied on human rights legislation to overturn a decision on end-of-life care. David Renton, barrister at Garden Court Chambers, explains
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Wrong move
11/05/2012
Re-housing tenants hundreds of miles from their home area can be damaging and it may also be illegal, says Nnenna Morah
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A charitable case for relief
04/05/2012
Exemptions from CIL are available but it’s advisable to check the details, says Mark Burrows, associate at Penningtons Solicitors
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Safe from harm
04/05/2012
A new tool will help landlords use the courts to tackle anti-social behaviour, says Helen Tucker
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Sound rulings
27/04/2012
The Court of Appeal won’t interfere when judges have used their discretion well, says Dorota Pawlowski
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Uncertain times for tenants
27/04/2012
Co-operatives need clarification over tenure regime for members, says Brynmor Adams, barrister at Five Paper
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Redressing the balance
20/04/2012
An equal pay claim ruling will affect the culture of ALMOs and councils, says Jack Harrington, partner at Pannone
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Testing the limits
20/04/2012
There’s little to be gained by taking proportionality arguments on evictions to court, says Jane Plant
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The stamp of approval
13/04/2012
Councils are expected to allow development wherever possible
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Up on the roof
13/04/2012
Councils must consider the impact of photovoltaic panels on right to buy sales, says Linda Storey
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Getting up to speed
10/04/2012
With little progress on calls for an exemption, developing social landlords need to be aware of new procurement rules, says Bill Hull
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Harm’s way
05/04/2012
A new tool will help landlords improve community life by tackling anti-social behaviour, says Sarah Pearson
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The harassment minefield
05/04/2012
Landlords which chase debts reasonably don’t need to fear legal action, says Matthew Lake, solicitor at Weightmans LLP
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Out in the open
30/03/2012
As the housing minister calls for transparency, Victoria Jardine says associations are already subject to disclosure requirements
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Unlocking the green code
30/03/2012
Green leases are becoming more common for social landlords with commercial property, says Ben Halsey, senior associate at Lewis Silkin
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Cutting tenancies short
23/03/2012
The judgement in a starter tenancy possession case is good news for landlords, says Josephine Sharrock, solicitor, Brabners Chaffe Street
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New rules
23/03/2012
The Charities Act 2006 will affect landlords registered as Industrial and Provident Societies, says Elizabeth Davis
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Cause for concern
20/03/2012
A recent security breach highlights why social housing providers should consider how they handle data, say legal experts Alison Deighton and Amy Carswell
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Bank on a big change
16/03/2012
Housing revenue account reform means for the first time councils can decide how much to borrow, but they must be on the ball if they are to get the best deal, says Rachel Terry
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Buyer’s market
16/03/2012
New procurement legislation aims to make it easier for small housing organisations to compete for contracts
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Construct a greener future
16/03/2012
Building regulations are being tightened in a bid to protect the environment, says Catherine Parker, solicitor at Trowers & Hamlins
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New criteria
09/03/2012
A Court of Appeal ruling has defined what constitutes sheltered accommodation, says Robert Wassall
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Pause for thought
09/03/2012
Consider the drawbacks before becoming a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation, warns Anne Swarbrick, head of charities at Anderson Strathern Solicitors
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Catch the pigeon
02/03/2012
Landlords face tough penalties if they fail to deal thoroughly with infestations by insects or animals, says Giles Peaker
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The order of importance
02/03/2012
The Localism Act allows councils to decide who they allocate homes to, but beware of discrimination, warns Samantha Hall, senior associate at Trowers & Hamlins
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Avoid the levy
24/02/2012
Social landlords should be exempt from paying the community infrastructure levy, but they must be vigilant, says Karen Howe
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Now it’s time to take notice
24/02/2012
Landlords must ensure they are not caught out by changes to building contract payments, says Kim Teichmann, associate at Thomas Eggar
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Where next for the green deal?
22/02/2012
As the government ponders its response to the green deal consultation, Bill Hull, from law firm TLT, examines the key areas of interest for registered providers
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Going spare
17/02/2012
The government’s contentious ‘bedroom tax’ on under-occupying tenants is set to become law this month. Alex Turner looks at the disproportionate effect it’s likely to have in the north
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Strike while the iron’s hot
17/02/2012
Landlords have until 12 December to deliver carbon emission and energy savings targets. Christopher Paul, partner at Trowers & Hamlins explains
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Take care
17/02/2012
A person who lacks the mental capacity to enter a tenancy agreement may still be entitled to housing benefit, says Robert Latham
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No magic solution
10/02/2012
Proposals to make it easier to evict anti-social tenants are unlikely to work, says Angela Jack, barrister at Five Paper
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Up to scratch
10/02/2012
Duties around property maintenance have now been enshrined in Scottish law, says Ruth McNaught
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Root of all evil
05/02/2012
Is there evidence that board members perform better if they are paid? Steve Gough, board member at Magma Housing Association and Magna Group, and housing lecturer, is still to be convinced.
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Exit strategy
03/02/2012
Tenants are wholly responsible for exercising break clauses, says Matthew Lake
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Window of opportunity
03/02/2012
Last month’s court ruling means landlords may have a few weeks to claim the pre-cut feed-in tariff rate, says Rob Beiley, partner at Trowers & Hamlins
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Middle ground
27/01/2012
A proposed definition of intermediate market rent needs expanding or landlords could risk breaching new standards, says Jonathan Cox
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The transfer window
27/01/2012
Be aware of employees’ rights when a change of service provision occurs, warns Marc Long, partner at Clarke Willmott
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Battling fraud
20/01/2012
New proposals to tackle sub-letting should include grounds for possession to bring stock back into use, says Colin Hammond, head of housing litigation at Penningtons Solicitors
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Missing contractual targets
20/01/2012
Housing benefit caps could put landlords providing rent collection services at financial risk says, David Isaacson, director at Cobbetts
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Caught out
13/01/2012
Social landlords should consider instructing investigators when they suspect fraud, say Samantha Darlington and Neil Lawlor
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Make plans crystal clear
13/01/2012
Landlords face needless court action if they fail to consult tenants properly, says Robert Wassall, head of social housing at Blake Lapthorn
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Ready for lift off
11/01/2012
House builders must be ready to react if government initiatives deliver a boost to the sector, says property expert Rebecca Kibby
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Rule change
06/01/2012
Landlords must prepare for big changes in the way they are regulated, says Ruth McNaught
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Shout it from the rooftops
06/01/2012
Further planning rules under the Localism Act could increase the need to consult residents, says Ben Halsey, senior associate at Lewis Silkin
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Scare tactics
16/12/2011
Landlords must take statutory demands seriously but they are often inappropriately used, says Anna-Liisa Walden
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Stuck in the mud
16/12/2011
Despite the Localism Act being passed, the role LEPs can play in housing remains uncertain, says Liz Jenkins, partner, and Laura Coates, trainee, at Clyde & Co
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Lending laws
09/12/2011
Follow these simple rules to ensure negotiations with lenders go smoothly, says Nnenna Morah
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The mental health maze
09/12/2011
Landlords seeking to evict tenants with mental disabilities must tread carefully, says Robert Wassall, head of the social housing sector group at Blake Lapthorn
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Tenant take over
02/12/2011
In some circumstances, residents can remove management function from their landlord, says Nicholas Kissen
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The certainty rule
02/12/2011
Limits on the right to serve notice to quit on tenants with periodic tenancies could be problematic, says Andrew Dymond, barrister at Arden Chambers
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Protecting your reputation
28/11/2011
How should employers address the threats posed by social networking sites? Lawyer Siobhan Fitzgerald explains
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A quick solution
25/11/2011
A recent case shows landlords should not have to go through a long process when seeking possession, says Ruth Hills
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Pepper potting problems
25/11/2011
In mixed tenure estates landlords could struggle to recoup costs for upkeep of communal areas, says Simon Bagg, senior associate at Lewis Silkin
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What’s in a name?
22/11/2011
The housing strategy for England has finally arrived, but what does it mean for the sector?
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Panel priorities
18/11/2011
Landlords must act fast to salvage what they can from photovoltaic deals before the feed-in tariff is cut, says Rob Beiley
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Tooled up for success
18/11/2011
Social landlords could save thousands of pounds and boost tenant satisfaction by improving their repairs services. Here, Debbie Larner explains how a new campaign aims to help them do just that
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What’s in the post?
18/11/2011
Landlords’ administrative errors can lead to time-consuming court cases, says Jane Plant, associate at Weightmans
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Reasons for rejection
16/11/2011
Housing associations can face legal challenges if they don’t give clear reasons for rejecting tender bids. Public procurement specialist Bill Hull explains
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Acting with conviction
11/11/2011
Squatting could soon be criminalised but awareness of current laws is crucial, says Sarah Lines, social housing lawyer at Cobbetts
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Counting the costs
11/11/2011
Just because you are successful at trial doesn’t mean you will recover all your legal costs, says Dan Butler
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Green guru
04/11/2011
The delivery of sustainable homes is a global problem and providers in the UK can learn a lot from their counterparts around the world, says Neil Jefferson
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How to...
04/11/2011
Social landlords can play a big role in improving the energy efficiency of the nation’s homes. But they must lobby hard to ensure ministers understand that they will need support to do so, says Martin Wheatley
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Look closely
04/11/2011
Don’t sign on the dotted line before checking contracts carefully for errors, says Matthew Lake
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The get out of jail free card
04/11/2011
Associations that enter into leases with councils must beware as authorities have a get-out clause, says Jacqueline Knox, director at Wragge & Co
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Another law bites the dust
28/10/2011
EU rules are forcing a rethink on asbestos regulations, says Claire Gregory, associate at Brabners Chaffe Street
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Tax break
28/10/2011
Landlords can have their say on a new levy which could increase affordable housing provision, says Katherine Evans
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Knocking down barriers
21/10/2011
Finance Bill reforms aim to make it easier and cheaper to invest in the housing market. James Duncan, partner at Winckworth Sherwood, explains
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The right combination
07/10/2011
Landlords should ensure the benefits of combined heat and power systems outweigh the burdens, says Nnenna Morah, senior associate in the housing team at Lewis Silkin
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Country file
30/09/2011
Shared ownership is subject to regulations in protected rural areas, says Jonathan Hulley
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Don’t be partners in crime
30/09/2011
Landlords must review their anti-corruption procedures and that of their partners or risk a large fine, says Kerry Gwyther, partner at TLT Solicitors
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Empty homes requests
23/09/2011
A new ruling and proposed changes to the Freedom of Information Act could open the floodgates to squatters, says Emma Duke, associate solicitor atAnthony Collins Solicitors
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Take the high road
23/09/2011
Before starting a development landlords must find out about public rights of way on the land, says Nnenna Morah
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Do your research
16/09/2011
Don’t commit to a development site until you’ve discovered all its restrictions, says John Russell
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Nest egg necessities
16/09/2011
Social landlords have just a year to prepare for pension reforms. Chris Crichton, solicitor at TLT Solicitors, explains more
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From conviction to eviction
09/09/2011
Proposed changes to possession grounds would be of no practical use, says Jane Plant, associate at Weightmans LLP
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Green deal Q&A
09/09/2011
Securing finance from banks is vital to the green deal’s success. Here, Conor Hennebry reveals the sector’s appetite for green investment
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Green guru
09/09/2011
Social landlords must ask themselves now how they will access green deal cash and whether energy company obligation funding can help, says Sally Hancox
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Sheltered lives
09/09/2011
Care providers must demonstrate they have acted fairly when changing services to avoid costly legal action, says Robert Wassall
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Solving the land puzzle
09/09/2011
If organisations share buildings the leftover sites can be pieced together for development, says Alan Stokes
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In the line of fire
07/09/2011
Social landlords often assume they have sole responsibility for fire safety in their properties, but the legal picture is not so straightforward. Ashley Borthwick from law firm TLT explains
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Weather any storms
02/09/2011
New guidelines will help landlords comply with the Human Rights Act, says Nnenna Morah, senior associate in the social housing team at Lewis Silkin
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Zero in on tax rules
02/09/2011
Landlords can still use subsidiaries to receive VAT benefits but they must seek proper legal advice, say Richard Brooks and Victoria Jardine
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Blame game
26/08/2011
Should landlords evict tenants if they or a member of their household is convicted of riot-related crimes, asks Yetunde Dania.
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Unlocking funds to build
26/08/2011
Associations must work carefully to secure their development grant, says Gillian Bastow, partner at Lewis Silkin
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Time to focus
19/08/2011
Associations should prepare for freedom of information requests and greater transparency
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Dealing with disputes
15/08/2011
The standard process for resolving construction disagreements isn’t always the most appropriate, explains Tom Wrzesien, a dispute resolution specialist at law firm TLT
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Fielding opposition
12/08/2011
Proposed legislation on registration of village greens would reduce risk to developers. Eollyn Ives, solicitor in the property team at Devonshires Solicitors, explains
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On new terms
12/08/2011
Proposed amendments to the Localism Bill would make longer fixed-term tenancies possible
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Off the debt hook
05/08/2011
Arrears are irrelevant to possession proceedings if they form part of a bankruptcy order, explains Helen Tucker, partner at Anthony Collins Solictiors
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Wind of change
05/08/2011
A host of new laws are set to change the landscape for Welsh social landlords. Michael Northcott reports
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A step too far
29/07/2011
The Law Commission is fighting the requirement for tenants to make all complaints in writing, says Lynne Murray
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Who cares, wins
29/07/2011
Existing social care laws are too complex and reform is to be welcomed, says Linda Convery, partner at Lewis Silkin
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Clearing your debts
27/07/2011
The Court of Appeal has given some clarification on claiming possession against an assured tenant subject to a bankruptcy order or debt relief order. Jason Hobday explains
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Branch out via Europe
22/07/2011
Social landlords creating companies to run extra services must still note EU procurement rules, says Rebecca Rees, partner at Trowers & Hamlins
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Time bomb
22/07/2011
Social landlords should beware the 18-month limit to recover service charges, says Emma Duke
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Special agents
19/07/2011
Is your organisation ready for the introduction of new rights for agency workers, asks Siobhan Fitzgerald, lawyer at TLT
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Beating the solar deadline
15/07/2011
Landlords have a limited time to cash in as subsidy switches from big to small-scale solar panel schemes. Laurence Lacey, associate at Clarke Willmott, explains
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Smoke signals
15/07/2011
Identifying fire risks is key to preventing tragedy. Helen Clifton finds out how one housing association is working with the fire service to keep tenants safe
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A new public right of way?
08/07/2011
The government’s latest announcement underpins the trend towards treating housing associations as public bodies. Philip Heath, partner, and Jane Plant, associate, at Weightmans, explain
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Some food for thought
01/07/2011
Landlords should assess their level of risk as the Bribery Act comes into force, says Kirsty Thompson, solicitor at Devonshires
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Keeping tenants in mind
24/06/2011
A recent ruling means landlords of supported living schemes could be denied benefit cash, says John Wearing, partner at Anthony Collins Solicitors
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Pipe dream
24/06/2011
A new law means social landlords will no longer be responsible for repairing certain pipework but there are exceptions
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Default hurdles creep up
17/06/2011
Lenders are adding to areas which trigger a loan default, says Louise Leaver, partner, head of finance, at Winckworth Sherwood
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Beware broken promises
10/06/2011
The Defective Premises Act may not apply to negligent building work in existing homes. Emma Wiltshire, senior associate at Clarke Willmott, explains
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False start
10/06/2011
Landlords must keep all documents relating to tenancies to avoid future disputes, says Jane Plant
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Get some expert advice
10/06/2011
Every week Inside Housing’s Need to Know section brings you best practice advice and information on the subjects most concerning you. Free with today’s magazine is the first ever Need to Know supplement. Here our Ask the Experts panel answer some of the key questions it raises
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No trouble
10/06/2011
The government is drawing up new measures to streamline approaches to anti-social behaviour. ASB advisor Chris Grose answers your questions about how they might work
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Efficient business
07/06/2011
Social landlords could benefit from the renewable heat incentive if they adopt the right model, argue lawyers Kate Silverman and Stuart Urquhart
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Do it yourself housing
03/06/2011
The government wants to help people build their own home and housing associations can help
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Avoid a brush with the law
27/05/2011
Should social landlords be responsible for keeping disabled tenants’ homes in good decorative order?
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Back to work
27/05/2011
Social networking and media can be used to help residents find employment. The fifth in our series of articles advising how to assist tenants into employment focuses on making online connections. Matt Lewis reports
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Fairytale ending?
27/05/2011
As the third sector’s Cinderella services struggle in the face of cuts social landlords have the opportunity to ride in like the proverbial prince and rescue them.
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Get your Act together
27/05/2011
With a host of legal acts coming into effect this year and next, Caroline Thorpe helps you to learn your lines so you can take to the housing stage with confidence
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Landed with the bill
27/05/2011
A recent case highlights the need to make sure building agreements are as accurate as possible
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Power to the people
27/05/2011
Working in housing can be a legal minefield but do you know your rights? Here our legal experts explain how to fight your corner in two common scenarios - whether you are an employer or an employee
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Keeping it simple
20/05/2011
Landlords pursuing the affordable rent model should consider streamlining their stock, says John Russell, partner at Blake Lapthorn
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Temporary solution
20/05/2011
New agency worker rules come into force in the autumn. Anita Pati explains why social landlords should be aware of the implications now
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Implementing affordable rent
17/05/2011
As the Localism Bill returns to parliament, Samantha Hall examines some of the problems facing landlords seeking to introduce fixed term tenancies
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The grassroots movement
13/05/2011
Developing landlords must beware of the community right to buy land, says Linda Convery, partner, real estate and development, at Lewis Silkin
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Who benefits?
13/05/2011
Despite the scrapping of the worker registration scheme, benefits remain dependent on work status
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Common ground
06/05/2011
Mediation is becoming an increasingly popular way of settling disputes. But what’s involved? Roger Levitt and Greg Campbell explain
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Eco doctor
06/05/2011
The Budget’s surprise changes to the zero carbon standard have sparked lively debate, says the Zero Carbon Hub’s Neil Jefferson, but more important changes are still to come
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Going by the book
06/05/2011
Redundancy terms for Supporting People staff must comply with the law, says Natasha Halliday
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Green guru
06/05/2011
Alison Mathias explains the Homes and Communities Agency’s ‘double subsidy’ rules on claiming feed-in tariffs
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How to...
06/05/2011
The renewable heat incentive can help social landlords fund green technology. Rory Bergin explains how it works
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Out of control
06/05/2011
New anti-social behaviour tools may not be available to housing associations. Jonathan Hulley, partner at Clarke Willmott, explains
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Testing times
03/05/2011
As the deadline passes for bids for development under the affordable rent programme, Katherine Evans examines how the planning process could hinder the new regime
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Get ready to raise the roof
28/04/2011
Landlords who want to rent out their roof should think about undertaking a competitive tender, say Rebecca Rees and Chris Paul, partners at Trowers & Hamlins
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A huge relief
21/04/2011
Though the government is not scrapping the community infrastructure levy, social housing will qualify for relief from paying it, says Paula Ghosh, senior associate at Lewis Silkin
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Back to work
21/04/2011
Networking can be a useful tool for residents looking for a change of job, to gain work experience or to advance their careers. The fourth in our series of articles advising how to assist tenants into employment focuses on making connections. Matt Lewis reports
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New build
21/04/2011
Landlords must ensure their construction contracts comply with new legislation, says Richard More
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Rational thinking
20/04/2011
Stock rationalisation is becoming increasingly popular as housing associations look to cut costs. Kate Silverman offers advice on making sure transfers run smoothly
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An expensive business
15/04/2011
New regulations could make employing agency workers a lot dearer, says Tanya Harley, solicitor at Lewis Silkin
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Super powers
15/04/2011
Despite some legal hurdles the future looks bright for a new joint ALMO in Kent, says Ian Doolittle
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Keep things in proportion
08/04/2011
After Pinnock landlords could face more court cases as short-term tenancies are introduced, says Kate Thompson, solicitor at Eversheds
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The REIT stuff
08/04/2011
REITS could help the private rented sector become the tenure of choice, says Simon Randall
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Double trouble
01/04/2011
The double subsidy prohibition should not arise if landlords play their cards right on feed-in tariffs
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Turning up the heat
01/04/2011
Benefit from a new scheme early by installing green heat technology to serve multiple homes, says Caroline Mostowfi, solicitor at Devonshires Solicitors
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Ready for lift off?
29/03/2011
With a host of changes about to sweep across the social housing sector, consultancies WCL and Auxo decided to find out how prepared the sector is. Jules Bickers outlines the findings
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Pinnock in practice
29/03/2011
A recent case suggests the impact of the Pinnock case on repossession hearings could be less dramatic than feared. Daniel Skinner explains
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A spanner in the works
25/03/2011
Landlords must take care when passing repair costs on to tenants, says Simon Bagg, senior associate in the property litigation team at Lewis Silkin
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Calm down
25/03/2011
There’s no need for housing associations to panic about losing their charitable status, says Keith Jenkins
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A fit investment?
18/03/2011
Feed-in-tariffs should cut carbon emissions and bills. But should landlords invest in renewable technology themselves or work with an installation company? Here, two housing associations argue the toss
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Keeping it clean
18/03/2011
Social landlords must protect themselves against money launderers, says David Biggerstaff, partner at Trowers & Hamlins
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Spring clean
18/03/2011
Considering rationalising your stock to boost your revenues? Richard Petty explains how to get your house in order
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Changing the rules
16/03/2011
As the first gang injunctions begin to be issued, Daniel Skinner outlines how the new orders work
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Scottish social housing charter
11/03/2011
A new charter will set out a code of conduct for landlords to abide by, says Jackie McGuire
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The new time stretcher
11/03/2011
A new exemption to the 20-year rule will allow Scotland’s social landlords to lease properties for longer, says Derek Hogg, partner at Harper Macleod
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Direct approach
04/03/2011
Paying housing benefit to landlords will help retain lender confidence and ensure more homes are built, says Joanna Till
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Some fuel for thought
04/03/2011
Companies will install solar panels for free to reduce tenants’ bills, but are rent-a-roof schemes the way forward? Kate Silverman and Alison Deighton, lawyers at TLT Solicitors, explain
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Take proper control
25/02/2011
A Supreme Court ruling makes it easier for social landlords to provide services to each other, says Mark London, partner at Devonshires
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Muddy waters
18/02/2011
Important questions remain over the funding, form and function of local enterprise partnerships. LIz Jenkins and Charlotte Davey, from Clyde & Co, explain.
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Safety first
18/02/2011
Social landlords must comply with gas regulations to avoid prosecution in case of an explosion, says Matthew Lake
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Does affordable rent stack up?
16/02/2011
The Chartered Institute of Housing examines the government’s new affordable rent programme.
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Eco doctor
11/02/2011
John Barnham explains how landlords can use the new 80 per cent rent regime to fund retrofitting hard-to-treat homes
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Green guru
11/02/2011
Refurbishing to meet 2050 energy targets will be much more complex than the decent homes programme. Oliver Novakovic explains why landlords must start the countdown for this deadline now
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How to...
11/02/2011
Martin Reeves explains how to retrofit a whole city by launching a low carbon enterprise partnership to create a booming local green economy
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New order
11/02/2011
Restrictions to empty dwelling management orders tie councils’ hands when dealing with new build properties, says Sarah Lines
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Passport control
11/02/2011
Housing providers must ensure they don’t employ staff who have no right to work in the UK, says Matthew Wort, associate at Anthony Collins
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Questions & answers
11/02/2011
Jane Briginshaw talks about Homes and Communities Agency involvement in sustainable design and why some developers have been granted eco-waivers
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A fair future?
09/02/2011
Catrin Young examines how government reforms could hit housing sector pensions
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Double jeopardy
04/02/2011
A new mandatory ground for possession means tenants may be punished twice for the same offence
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Turning down trouble
04/02/2011
A mandatory ground for possession in cases of anti-social behaviour is unworkable, says barrister Jon Mack
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Positive discrimination
28/01/2011
Landlords must prove they provide specific benefits to avoid being caught by the Equality Act, says Philip Heath, partner at Weightmans
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The 80% challenge
28/01/2011
New affordable rents could lead to human rights challenges, say Helen Tucker and Jane Plant
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Avoiding the benefit trap
21/01/2011
A new initiative is helping youngsters on benefits get back into work by offering them low-cost rental accommodation. Lydia Stockdale finds out how the scheme works
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Under the spotlight
21/01/2011
Housing associations should review their policies before exercising the new flexible tenancies, say Suzanne Gregson and Alison Oldfield, partners at Eversheds
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Mum’s the word
14/01/2011
Much stigma surrounds postnatal depression, particularly among some black and minority ethnic communities. Anita Pati finds out how one housing association is helping women cope
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Secure your future
14/01/2011
Landlords must ensure they vet staff to protect themselves and the public
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A new year erupts
07/01/2011
Are you ready for another explosive year? To stop you getting lost amid the shifting landscape, Lydia Stockdale has the essential guide to the months ahead
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Build community strength
07/01/2011
The Localism Bill could lead to radical changes for landlords and tenants, says Lynne Murray, partner at TLT solicitors
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On better terms
07/01/2011
The withdrawal of the two-tier code will enable landlords to make savings on their recruitment costs, says Stuart McBride
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Cash back?
17/12/2010
A new ruling means overpayments of benefits are no longer recoverable unless the claimaint agrees, says Paul Hayes
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Filling the emptiness
17/12/2010
There are thousands of empty homes in the UK but now three new solutions are at hand, says Sarah Lines, director at Cobbetts
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A fair share?
10/12/2010
Rural planners are causing shared landlords an unnecessary headache, says Ian Deuchar
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Passing the fitness test
10/12/2010
A new definition of charity means landlords must make sure their managers are fit for purpose, says Philip Heath, corporate partner at Weightmans
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Enrolment costs
08/12/2010
Chris Crighton, specialist pensions lawyer at national law firm TLT, sets out what employers in the social housing sector will need to do to prepare for automatic enrolment in pension schemes
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Self service
03/12/2010
A change to HCA rules has given social landlords greater freedom over the services they charge for, says Tim Miles
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The devil’s in the dust
03/12/2010
A wide range of legislation covers asbestos. Providers need to be abreast of it all, says Amanda Stubbs, partner at Trowers & Hamlins
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Out with the old
26/11/2010
The Scottish Housing Bill marks the dawn of a new era for social landlords north of the border, says Jackie McGuire
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The Pinnock ripple effect
26/11/2010
Why the Pinnock case could undermine the use of starter tenancies. Jane Plant, associate solicitor, and Helen Tucker, partner, at Anthony Collins explain
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The way I see it
26/11/2010
Landlords must increase energy efficiency now, before their tenants are left counting the costs, says Nick Sutton, a project manager at Trent & Dove Housing
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Priced out of the market
19/11/2010
The universal credit will simplify things but could spell trouble for landlords in expensive areas, says Jo Till, solicitor at Trowers & Hamlins
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Public protect
19/11/2010
The message of joining forces to fight fraud must not be lost with the Audit Commission, says Andrew Gillett
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Eviction overhaul
12/11/2010
The Pinnock ruling means social landlords will find it harder to evict tenants, says Paul Hayes, head of housing litigation at Lewis Silkin
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Cracking down on corruption
10/11/2010
Kerry Gwyther, head of regulatory law at TLT, examines issues for registered providers and their boards in the Bribery Act 2010
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Dawn of a brave new world
05/11/2010
There are big changes afoot in the world of rents and regulations. Keith Jenkins, partner at Winckworth Sherwood, explains
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Eco doctor
05/11/2010
Chris Paul explains how to negotiate the hurdles of forming an ESCO arrangement
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Green guru
05/11/2010
Community heating systems are a cost-effective way for social landlords to comply with carbon reduction targets but inexperienced providers could get caught out. Casey Cole explains how to avoid the pitfalls of metering
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How to...
05/11/2010
Duncan Price explains how landlords can join a new funding consortium to maximise their return from feed-in tariffs
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Safety first
05/11/2010
The health and safety review will help simplify legislation for social landlords, says Mark London
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Don't hold back
29/10/2010
With a few adjustments, shared ownership schemes for people with disabilities can work well. Nicki Winstanley and Camilla Thornberry, lawyers at Trowers & Hamlins, explain how
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Goodbye to the golden nest-egg?
29/10/2010
Is it time to put your dreams of golf, gardening and cruises on ice? As the overhaul of public sector pensions gets underway, Lydia Stockdale explains how it could affect your retirement
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It’s time to get even
29/10/2010
The Equality Act 2010 took effect this month but how will it affect social landlords? Sian Jones, partner at Morgan Cole, gives her view
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Time to retire?
29/10/2010
Clarification of changes to the Local Goverrnment Penion Scheme are eagerly awaited, says Patricia Critchley
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Cash back
22/10/2010
If a lender repossesses a home bought under right to buy, they must pay back the discount, says Michelle Knight
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Stick to the slow lane
22/10/2010
Social housing providers should be wary of acting too hastily if they agree to set up a car club, says Roger Yates, partner at Carter Lemon Camerons
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Be careful not to get stung
15/10/2010
A court ruling means dismissed employees can now recover unlimited damages. Phil Allen and Emlyn Williams, partners at Mace & Jones, explain
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Watch this space
15/10/2010
The Supreme Court is considering cases which could have a big impact on landlords, say Jane Plant and Helen Tucker
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Rules of employment
12/10/2010
Equality law has been given an overhaul. Employment lawyer Joanne Lunt outlines some of the implications for housing providers
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Giving notice
08/10/2010
A new act gives tenants more protection if their landlord faces repossession, says Karen Neald
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Tackling gang violence
08/10/2010
Housing associations cannot apply for new injunctions to tackle gang violence. Jane Plant, associate solicitor at Anthony Collins Solicitors, explains why
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Are we spoilt for choice?
01/10/2010
When it comes to intermediate housing, sometimes less is more, says Neil Toner, partner at Lewis Silkin
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Bad language
01/10/2010
Want to make shared ownership properties more attractive to mortgage lenders and potential homeowners? Then you need to toss out the technospeak, says Lydia Stockdale
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People power
01/10/2010
With housing inspections in limbo after the demise of the Audit Commission it’s time to go local, says Hugo Stephens
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Doing things by the book
24/09/2010
Public/private development partnerships can constitute public works and must adhere to EU procurement rules. Martin Vincent, head of procurement at Mace & Jones, explains.
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Beat the domino effect
17/09/2010
Housing providers must make contingency plans after the collapse of contractor Connaught. Andrew Millross and Richard More, from Anthony Collins Solicitors, explain how.
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Selling yourself
17/09/2010
Landlords are under pressure to help workless residents, but many feel ill-equipped to deal with it. This is the first in a new series of articles which aims to supply clear advice and tips to help tenants into employment. Matt Lewis reports
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The price is right
17/09/2010
Landlords must be aware that tenancies with an annual rent of more than £25,000 will now be assured, says Neil Lawlor
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Eco doctor
10/09/2010
Strengthening supply chains through ‘sandpit’ days will help reduce the cost of building zero carbon homes on a grand scale says Dr Elizabeth Ness
-
Green guru
10/09/2010
Olivia Powis tallies up the funding available to help pay for retrofitting a home
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How to...
10/09/2010
Andrew Eagles outlines five areas social landlords can target to improve their SHIFT environmental ranking
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Provider beware
10/09/2010
Landlords face increased risks under the home ownership for people with long-term disabilities scheme, says David Percival
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Public sector workers unite
10/09/2010
Government suppport for workers’ co-operatives creates new opportunity, says Simon Randall, a consultant at Winckworth Sherwood
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Ready for reform
07/09/2010
With an announcement on the future of council housing finance due this month, social housing lawyer Kate Silverman examines what the current proposals would mean for local authorities and housing associations.
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Gang ban
03/09/2010
Clauses stopping tenants from being gang members will be difficult to enforce, says Robert Wassall
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Outlook unclear for cloud
03/09/2010
Social landlords should consider the drawbacks as well as the benefits of online IT services delivery, says Simon Morrissey
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An end to ASBOs?
27/08/2010
The review of anti-social behaviour powers must not impact the ability of social landlords to tackle the problem
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Unlock sex offender data
27/08/2010
Scottish housing providers were refused statistics on sex offenders but have won an appeal. Emma Gilpin, senior solicitor in public law at Brodies, explains.
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A breach in security
20/08/2010
Scrapping security of tenure will lead to a huge increase in litigation.
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Who will succeed?
20/08/2010
If a tenant dies, the tenancy vests in the surviving joint tenant regardless of where they live, says Yetunde Dania
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Behind closed doors
13/08/2010
On the outside they look like ordinary guesthouses but inside, rogue landlords are using Blackpool’s former hotels to house dozens of people in unsanitary conditions. Marie-Claire Kidd reports on how the council is fighting back
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Climate change
06/08/2010
Does the prospect of a grant free world mean doom or opportunity for developing housing associations asks corporate finance lawyer Pete Naylor.
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Last resort
06/08/2010
The outcome of an anti-social behaviour case brought by a tenant could see landlords default to possession orders, says Neil Brand
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Lightening the load
06/08/2010
Housing associations are missing a trick with the mortgage rescue scheme, says Sian Evans, partner at Weightmans
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Common sense approach
30/07/2010
Landlords are in limbo as the government fails to clarify ISA registration rules, says James Lynas
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The pensions minefield
30/07/2010
Close a final salary scheme with a deficit and you may trigger an almighty fall-out, says Doug Mullen, associate at Anthony Collins Solicitors
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History of violence
23/07/2010
A Court of Appeal ruling means landlords can seek possession on grounds of domestic violence even after the victim has fled, says Ian Larkins
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Life on the open road
23/07/2010
New regulation gives housing association board members more freedom, says Emma Tarran, partner at Trowers & Hamlins
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What's the damage?
20/07/2010
Housemark outlines the findings from its annual report assessing how effectively social landlords are dealing with anti-social behaviour.
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The clock is ticking
16/07/2010
Landlords who deal with care must beware of new law requiring registration, says Lynn Aglionby, partner at Trowers & Hamlins LLP
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The right side of the law
16/07/2010
A new High Court case sets another human rights precedent, says Scott Greenwood
-
Mopping up regulation
09/07/2010
The probable merger of the TSA and HCA could clean up the legislation, says Hugo Stephens, partner and head of housing at Cobbetts
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Reset the pain threshold
09/07/2010
Landlords must reach a new understanding with tenants following Budget cuts to benefit, says Rebecca McGuirk
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Is the money in the bag?
02/07/2010
At what point does HCA grant approval become legally binding? Naomi Goode explains
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The price is right
02/07/2010
Community land trusts are to play a bigger part in the provision of affordable homes, says Tim Davies
-
Uncertain times
29/06/2010
Katherine Evans, partner at law firm TLT, examines how changes in planning are affecting the social housing sector
-
Play by the rules
25/06/2010
Social landlords can advise tenants on money issues but must follow guidelines from the financial regulator, says Miguel Pereira
-
The fraud files
25/06/2010
Local authorities must share data to fight fraud and save millions, says Andrew Gillett, partner and head of casualty fraud, Weightmans
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Beware a break in the chain
18/06/2010
Beware of transfers as they could prove costly if you lose a contract, says Steven Lorber, partner at Lewis Silkin
-
The road ahead
16/06/2010
Justin Sumner offers his monthly update on how wider economic issues could affect housing in the UK.
-
Age of consent
11/06/2010
The TSA’s new regulations cut through a lot of red tape for social landlords, writes Robert Wassall
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Control your data
11/06/2010
Keep your data protection policies under review or face fines up to £500,000, says Carolyn Fink, associate at Penningtons Solicitors
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FITs and starts
08/06/2010
Stuart Urquhart and Lynne Murray, from law firm TLT, give an overview of feed-in tariffs and look at some of the issues for consideration when tapping into the benefits of the scheme.
-
Hip new rules
04/06/2010
HIPs may be history but social landlords still need to watch out for Energy Performance Certificate rules, says Sheila Whitton
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Nowhere to turn
04/06/2010
The prime minister must honour his pledge to back Inside Housing’s House Proud campaign for the sake of those caught up in the housing crisis, says Bill Randall
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The dawn of a new era
04/06/2010
What details should we look out for in the new legislative programme?
-
All’s fair under EU law
28/05/2010
Make sure you don’t fall foul of EU laws in offering tenders for public works, says Philip Heath
-
Build your legal muscle
28/05/2010
There’s a lot of choice when it comes to in-house legal training for housing staff. Anita Pati asks workers in a range of roles for their top picks of the courses on offer
-
Don’t get court out
28/05/2010
It is now more important than ever for social landlords to prepare properly for possession claims. Dean Underwood gives a step-by-step guide to the procedure
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Put it in the diary
28/05/2010
The Labour government passed a record 4,300 laws between 1997 and their defeat in this month’s general election. And there are a few more in the pipeline, still to be passed. Here is the key legislation to look out for alongside some important cases that could have serious legal implications for housing in the UK
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Stand firm
28/05/2010
Landlords must make sure their policies on medical assessment are robust enough to withstand unforeseen changes, says Polly Glynn
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The view across the fence
28/05/2010
Employment tribunals are on the rise. Here two specialist lawyers in the field explain the process for both the employer and the employee
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From pillar to post
25/05/2010
Recent guidance has clarified who should provide support for homeless 16 and 17 year olds. Hannah Britz explains why it was needed.
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Eyeing a change
21/05/2010
Introducing a regulator in Scotland is a positive move but landlords must be aware of some risks, says James McMorrow
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The net is closing in
21/05/2010
Charitable housing providers must be prepared for regulation, says Peter Hubbard
-
Action not words
17/05/2010
Justin Sumner sets out the key financial issues facing the new government, and their potential impact on the housing market.
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A whole new rule book
14/05/2010
ALMOs are now subject to the Tenant Services Authority’s regulations. Gareth Hall, partner at Devonshires, explains.
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Duty free?
14/05/2010
A recent case means councils could be held responsible for their ALMOs’ employees, says Stuart Jones
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Cracking the code
11/05/2010
From 1 April many builders of new homes have been required to meet a new consumer code. Graham Walters, partner at law firm TLT, explains the implications.
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In the balance
07/05/2010
In recent weeks the leaders of the three main political parties have all been interviewed by Inside Housing. With the make-up of the next UK government still in doubt, here is what the various options could mean for the housing sector.
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Calculate the benefits
07/05/2010
Housing associations can now take advantage of new tax benefits by registering ‘for profit’ subsidiaries with the TSA. Philip Alfandary and Kate Silverman explain how.
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Court in middle
30/04/2010
Landlords seeking evictions are in a difficult position as judges decide which court does what, says Ian Larkins
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Job zone - east midlands
30/04/2010
The social housing jobs market remains very active it being a traditionally quieter time of year, says Phil Jackson
-
Removing the straitjacket
30/04/2010
Landlords must adopt new probity policies to adhere to TSA regulations, says Peter Hubbard
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Cost of living
27/04/2010
A recent case demonstrates the consequences local authorities can face if they fall foul of contracts with their tenants.
-
Moving the goalposts
23/04/2010
Landlords should take note of changes brought by the new Equality Bill, says Chris Syder
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No more promises
23/04/2010
A planning obligation no longer guarantees planning permission, says David Brock
-
Scales of prudence
19/04/2010
Justin Sumner gives his monthly update on how wider economic changes are affecting the housing sector.
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Expert opinion
16/04/2010
Failure to take up adequate employee references can prove disastrous in the long term
-
On the public highway
16/04/2010
Registered housing providers are increasingly moving from private to public status
-
The gallery
16/04/2010
Before the demolition of Southern Housing Group’s 1960s Market estate in Islington, north London, begins later this month, the housing association has teamed up with arts regeneration practice Talltales to turn the site into an art project.
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The way I see it
16/04/2010
We must weigh up the cost of saying ‘no’ to asylum seekers’ plea for housing
-
Deal with pet peeves
09/04/2010
A recent dog owner case shows housing providers are beholden to head lessor, explains Scott Greenwood
-
Declare your deposits
09/04/2010
Landlords could be fined if they fail to register deposits in time, says Paul Hayes
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Green menace
06/04/2010
Christian Silk, from law firm TLT, explains how village green legislation poses a threat to developers
-
The changing of the guard
01/04/2010
It’s finally here — 1 April is the day everything changes as far as housing regulation goes for all types of housing provider in England. So what do you need to know?
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The interview lottery
29/03/2010
Blair McPherson examines how job interviews can be improved, and offers the chance to win copies of his new book.
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Learning at arm’s-length
26/03/2010
Can the remit of ALMOs be extended to projects such as building schools? Paul Butterworth, head of social housing at TLT, explains.
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Think twice
26/03/2010
Landlords should beware of seeking possession against tenants with disabilities, says Sian Evans
-
A delicate balance
23/03/2010
Housing providers must meet the housing needs of people diagnosed with HIV without displaying prejudice, explains solicitor Sophie Bell
-
At the crossroads
19/03/2010
All the political parties will be poring over John Healey’s proposals on council housing finance reform because, whoever wins the election, change in housing’s financial model is afoot - and its effects will last for years, writes David Hall
-
Dropping anchor
19/03/2010
Two landmark cases have opened up eligibility for social housing for non-European migrants
-
Slow burn strategy
19/03/2010
Low rental yields on affordable housing offer little incentive to private investors. But a longer-term return on the capital value of their investment might tempt them into the market, argues Ian Graham
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Splitting the difference
16/03/2010
Last month the Homes and Communities Agency introduced a new model shared ownership lease. Graham Walters, a partner at law firm TLT, explains the changes
-
Jobs zone - Scotland
12/03/2010
There’s no doubt Scotland’s social housing sector has been affected by the tough economic climate, but as we move further into 2010 it’s becoming clear that homeless caseworkers, project workers and sheltered housing managers are all in demand, writes Suzanne Hamilton.
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Parallel pathway
12/03/2010
Here, Jim Bauld looks at Scotland’s right to buy rules
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Red card troublemakers
12/03/2010
A Glasgow case sets a useful precedent when pursuing full ASBOs
-
Time to act
10/03/2010
Justin Sumner gives his thoughts on how the latest economic developments could affect the housing market
-
Fuel for thought
05/03/2010
Think through the consequences of installing a combined heat and power plant, says Andrew Barnard
-
Sweeping changes
05/03/2010
The regulation of health and social care providers faces an overhaul. Linda Convery explains the implications
-
Adding years
26/02/2010
Landlords need to get to grips with lease extensions if they don’t want to lose out, says Simon Bagg
-
Jobs zone - South
26/02/2010
Housing associations in the south of England are on track to meet their decent homes targets and so are now focusing on retrofitting, writes Andrew Lambert.
-
Levy with an escape route
26/02/2010
Developers face a new tax, but local authorities are not obliged to charge it, explains Neil Cohen
-
Belt and braces
19/02/2010
Landlords should take every possible precaution with their procurement policies to avoid falling foul of new laws, advises James McMorrow
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No strings attached
19/02/2010
Housing associations no longer have to mirror local authority pay rises for stock transfer staff
-
An ill wind
16/02/2010
Could rising inflation be the headwind that triggers a double dip recession? Justin Sumner hopes not
-
A second bite at the cherry
12/02/2010
Social landlords are used to appeals but how do you know when a judgement is worth challenging?
-
Extending planning permission
10/02/2010
Christian Silk, associate at legal firm TLT, explains how cash-strapped developers can use new rules to extend planning permissions until they can secure the funds to begin work
-
Commencing countdown
05/02/2010
The Tenant Services Authority ignites into action on 1 April, so what should councils and ALMOs do to prepare? Greg Campbell and Tony Hirsch explain
-
Keep it secure
05/02/2010
Follow basic steps to keep personal information safe to avoid breaching the Data Protection Act, says David Hall
-
Maximum protection
05/02/2010
Choose a main contractor early on in a project to prevent problems later
-
For the record
28/01/2010
In the second of a mini-series on the Data Protection Act 1998, we consider how you should maintain data under the act’s principles.
-
Beware boomerang bills
28/01/2010
Consult with leaseholders before charging for works - or pay the consequences
-
Clear the high hurdles
22/01/2010
Avoid being tripped up by new pension rules which come into force in 2012
-
Building leeway
15/01/2010
Efforts to broaden section 73’s remit on planning rumble on, says Rupert Wilson
-
Detecting the sub-letters
15/01/2010
If they take the right measures, landlords can crack down on sub-letting
-
A new beginning
13/01/2010
The start of 2010 will herald a fresh start for the house building market, if traditional indicators are to be believed. GL Hearn’s Justin Sumner explains why.
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Forged in a new mould
08/01/2010
A new era of freedom beckons for the structural set-up of social landlords
-
Briefing: the Roanne judgement
05/01/2010
How a European ruling on a French regeneration scheme is affecting social housing development in the UK
-
Light touch regulation
18/12/2009
What will the TSA’s reduction in regulatory burden mean for providers?
-
Taxing questions
15/12/2009
The return of 17.5 per cent VAT has been long expected, but that doesn’t mean everyone is ready. Roy Knowles outlines how to prepare
-
Inflation - The devil lying in wait?
11/12/2009
Justin Sumner gives his monthly update on how changes in the wider economy could impact on the housing market
-
Changing course
11/12/2009
Building zero carbon homes is frequently in the headlines, but zero carbon refurbishment could be an even bigger issue. Andrew Eagles explains
-
Killer’s family removed
04/12/2009
How Riverside Group secured a high-profile possession order
-
Polluting partners
04/12/2009
Both parties in a contamination dispute are responsible, says Pamela Coulthard
-
A room with a view
27/11/2009
Could social housing developments be stopped if deemed ‘annoying’ to neighbours?
-
Walk the line
27/11/2009
Social landlords at last have guidance on when EU rules apply, says Andrew Harbourne
-
Curing conflict
24/11/2009
Could tougher regulation reduce legal disputes between housing associations and tenants?
-
No through road
20/11/2009
Landlords should not panic about the decision in L&Q v Weaver
-
Gone but not forgotten
13/11/2009
Landlords can bring ASBIs against former tenants, says Deborah Powell
-
Jobs zone - north east England
13/11/2009
The north east needs designers, developers, housing graduates and more, says Mark Flannery
-
Security bypass
13/11/2009
Great Places has completed a merger without having to guarantee £10 million in pensions debt. Here’s how
-
Getting credit flowing
10/11/2009
Does increased lending bode well for the property market? Justin Sumner takes his monthly look at how wider economic forces are coming to bear on housing
-
In good health?
06/11/2009
Now is a good time to give leasehold service charge systems the once over
-
Seat of learning
06/11/2009
Sponsorship of an academy has a lot to offer housing associations, says Richard Freeth
-
All in the name
30/10/2009
Confusion over the status of Local Housing Companies has stopped them from aiding development, says Helen Meyler
-
Housing benefit squeezed
30/10/2009
A recent court ruling has financial implications for social landlords providing supported housing
-
Retrofit rethink
30/10/2009
Kevin McCloud talks about the challenges of retrofitting
-
Building relationships
23/10/2009
Landlords must heed the implications of price-fixing uncovered in the building industry
-
For your eyes only
23/10/2009
Social landlords must make sure they are guarding data properly says David Hall
-
Extinguish fire risks
16/10/2009
Following the Lakanal House fire, landlords should ask themselves some key safety questions
-
Offence taken
16/10/2009
Tenants can expect past sexual convictions to affect their housing applications, says Scott Greenwood
-
Double bubble or double dip?
12/10/2009
Justin Sumner, from consultancy GL Hearn, gives his latest assessment of the state of the housing market and wider economy
-
Retaining freeholds
09/10/2009
Shared owners of houses can now be excluded from enfranchisement, say James Driscoll and Jessica Lockley
-
Side by side
09/10/2009
Councils can deliver new build mixed tenure schemes by setting up a special purpose vehicle, says Anne Bowden
-
Walk this way
02/10/2009
Always check for public rights of way before buying land to develop, says Nnenna Morah
-
Water-tight agreements
02/10/2009
Social landlords must protect their rent and service charges from tenant challenges, says Geraldine Haden
-
Celebrations on ice
25/09/2009
Employers could benefit from a rise in the minimum age their staff can take their pension
-
Especially for you
25/09/2009
With cuts in government grant all but inevitable, housing associations need to overhaul their marketing strategies to increase shared ownership sales. Creating the right package for your target market is key, says David Taylor
-
Sales pitch
25/09/2009
Landlords will be able to dispose of land without always seeking the consent of the TSA, says Ben Halsey
-
Handle with care
18/09/2009
New laws improve the vetting process for staff working with vulnerable people
-
State of the market
14/09/2009
Is the recession ending, or are price rises a ‘false dawn’. Justin Sumner, director - new homes at consultancy GL Hearn, gives his monthly update
-
A drink too many
11/09/2009
Councils can use new orders to help tackle alcohol-induced anti-social behaviour, says Ian Larkins
-
Going it alone
11/09/2009
Community land trusts have new-found freedom when applying for grants, says Ian Moran
-
Home alone?
04/09/2009
Landlords cannot detect illegal subletting using housing benefit and tenancy records alone, says Ewan Wallace
-
An inspector’s step by step guide
04/09/2009
Comprehensive area assessment is a new way of assessing local public services. Audit Commission inspector Roy Irwin gives the lowdown
-
Be seen and heard
04/09/2009
Social landlords are in danger of being shut out of estate management
-
Solid grounds
28/08/2009
Orders against nuisance behaviour must be crystal clear, says Ian Larkins
-
Whose duty is it anyway?
28/08/2009
A Lords decision should end confusion about who is responsible for housing 16- and 17-year-olds
-
Facing the consequences
21/08/2009
The Corby birth defects scandal underlines landlords’ environmental liabilities
-
Open season
21/08/2009
Disappointed public contract tenderers will soon have their chances of legal redress expanded, says Andrew Harbourne
-
A less than perfect fit
14/08/2009
A test case clarifies what landlords must weigh up when trying to possess under-occupied homes
-
Ask the experts
14/08/2009
Q: As part of an anti-social behaviour customer experience review I would like to seek input on the following. How do other landlordsdeliver their ASB services? If they have specialist ASB services, what do those services deal with? What are the boundaries? How arethe teams split?
-
Final decision
14/08/2009
Higher courts can only decide on procedure in possession orders, says Sian Evans
-
Leave prejudice at the door
14/08/2009
How can landlords ensure they are gay-friendly? Derek Munn offers some tips
-
Expert opinion
07/08/2009
Pressure on community cohesion is likely to grow during a recession, which makes it all the more important that projects aimed at creating mixed and balanced communities aren’t axed
-
Flexible friends
07/08/2009
Building homes in a crunch will require landlords and builders to reshape their approach
-
A chance for all
31/07/2009
The Equality Bill affects landlords as employers and as public servants, writes Rebecca McGuirk
-
Out of sight
30/07/2009
Social landlords have been given a reprieve from freedom of information laws, says Lynn Aglionby
-
State of the market
29/07/2009
Dark clouds or green shoots? Justin Sumner, director of new homes at property consultants GL Hearn, gives an update on the housing market.
-
A blow to well-being
24/07/2009
A recent procurement decision has shaken councils - and could affect social landlords as well, says Celia Cullen
-
A tough sell
24/07/2009
The Council of Mortgage Lenders has produced a briefing to persuade councils not to use section 106 Town & Country Planning Act agreements to keep affordable housing as such permanently.
-
Ready for your close-up
24/07/2009
Focus on these four areas and short notice inspections will be a breeze, says Andrew Greenhill
-
Eco-town round up
20/07/2009
Last week the government announced it is pressing ahead with four eco-towns, which it hopes will be built by 2016. Isabel Hardman looks at the detail of the proposals
-
Can’t stay, won’t stay
17/07/2009
Two cases clarify landlord responsibilities regarding intentional homelessness, writes Robert Latham
-
Crime watch
17/07/2009
Landlords can now demand immediate possession of a house if it has been used to assist criminal activity, says Karen Neald
-
Now for the good news
10/07/2009
The Finance Bill takes affect later this month - what will it mean for social landlords? Neil Cohen reports
-
Pulled in two directions
03/07/2009
Robert Latham examines how a legal battle has thrown the status of social landlords into disarray
-
Into the breach
26/06/2009
How serious must a breach of tenancy be before a council can issue a possession order, asks Sian Evans
-
Under cover
26/06/2009
There are strategies out there to shelter landlords from the financial storm, writes Andrew Shaw
-
Briefing: Weaver v L&Q
23/06/2009
Barrister Abimbola Badejo examines the details and implications of a Court of Appeal ruling that housing associations can be seen as public bodies
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Behind the blue door
19/06/2009
Tory housing policy would require radical changes
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Clawing back VAT
19/06/2009
High Court ruling confirms way for landlords to recover VAT, write Peter Stockdale and Amanda Atkinson
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Three ways to be proactive about land
19/06/2009
With crashing markets and stalled development, land supply management may not seem like a top priority. In fact, says the CIH’s Abigail Davies, it’s now more important than ever, to prepare for the recovery
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Where to begin?
19/06/2009
Payment terms can be a headache for developers, says Rory Fordyce
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X & Y v Hounslow Council (Court of Appeal)
19/06/2009
Bob Hetherington looks at how far a council’s duty of care extends towards tenants at risk of violence
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ALMOs hit by Leeds ruling
12/06/2009
An employment case involving Leeds Council and its ALMO could have far-reaching implications
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Right to a lawyer
12/06/2009
Employees accused of misconduct around children could be allowed a lawyer during internal disciplinary hearings, writes James Lynas
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Courage under fire
05/06/2009
Rafael Runco, deputy housing ombudsman, and Rod Webb, knowledge manager at Housemark, offer their top five tips for handling complaints and tenant dissatisfaction
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Follow the golden brick road
05/06/2009
‘Golden brick’ schemes allow landlords to avoid tax on new units without penalising developers
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Age-old problem
29/05/2009
Patricia Critchley welcomes a simpler approach to pension law
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Access granted
22/05/2009
What happens when private developers turn to grant to build affordable housing?
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Flat broke
22/05/2009
Social landlords need to prepare a strategy to deal with bankrupt tenants, warns Matthew Barker
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Unfinished business
15/05/2009
Landlords need to be more proactive around delivery agreements, writes Andrew Shaw
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Disciplinary action
08/05/2009
The new ACAS code of practice is the best defence in disciplinary situations
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Green guru: cutting the cost of driving
08/05/2009
Solihull Community Housing has revamped its commercial vehicles with the aim of cutting carbon emissions and fuel costs. Operations manager Malcolm Castanheira offers his top tips on driving a greener fleet
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Sick and tired
08/05/2009
Employers could be out of pocket where employees on long-term sick leave are concerned, writes Stuart Jones
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As if by magic
01/05/2009
Virtual group structures can help landlords conjure up much-needed savings
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Age concern
24/04/2009
A Court of Appeal decision means that councils must be careful when housing minors, writes Dean Underwood
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Timing is everything
24/04/2009
Deciding when to use your homes as security for a loan can be a tough decision
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Extra charge
17/04/2009
Changes to right to buy legislation can assist leaseholders who have been hit by service charges, explains James Driscoll
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Into the void
17/04/2009
Empty dwelling management orders were introduced by the Housing Act 2004 to enable local housing authorities to take over the management of empty residential properties.
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Joined-up thinking
10/04/2009
There are a variety of options open to councils that want to take action on empty homes, including partnerships with housing associations and developers.
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Protect your position
03/04/2009
Your contractor is at risk of insolvency. As a housing association, how can you protect yourself?
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Right to possess
03/04/2009
There is a growing trend of using human rights law as a defence in possession cases, writes Scott Greenwood of Coffin Mew
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Cash flow solution
27/03/2009
A new bill aims to simplify payments and improve access to adjudication
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Health checks
27/03/2009
Employees on long-term sick leave are entitled to holiday pay, explains Stuart Jones of Weightmans
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No man’s land
20/03/2009
Without a secure tenancy, leases cannot be inherited, says Andrew Logan of Weightmans
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Tethered to the mast
20/03/2009
It may seem like an attractive offer - but mobile phone masts can bring legal headaches. Kate Silverman, senior associate at Lewis Silkin, explains
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A new shape
13/03/2009
Moulding your company structure is a viable strategy, even in a downturn. Here are 14 steps to consider
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Calling card
13/03/2009
The well-known CORGI gas safety scheme is about to vanish and landlords need to introduce the new regime to their tenants. Wayne Hughes reports
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Dash for cover
13/03/2009
Landlords beware - cheap insurance rates are unlikely to benefit anyone in the long term, writes Tom Shewry
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It all adds up
13/03/2009
Housing associations need to overhaul their accounting systems or face errors and complications, writes Karen Connelly
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Leaving arrangements
06/03/2009
Agency workers’ contracts must be ended with care, writes Rebecca McGuirk
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In a bind
27/02/2009
Mortgagee protection clauses allow social landlords to get better loan deals
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Extended rights
20/02/2009
Employees with disabled dependents now have recourse to the Disability Discrimination Act, explains Stuart Jones of Weightmans LLP
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Credit crunch update
18/02/2009
Consultancy Tribal’s latest update on the financial difficulties facing the housing sector
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Tender spot
13/02/2009
All details of the evaluation process must be disclosed to bidders under EU rules, explains Susie Smith of Bevan Brittan
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Shut down
06/02/2009
Premises closure orders can provide respite from anti-social behaviour, writes Scott Greenwood of Coffin Mew
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Council-led house building
30/01/2009
The Chartered Institute of Housing outlines how the government is planning to encourage councils to build homes, and assesses the likely impact of the measures.
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Branch of the law
30/01/2009
Neglecting the trees on your land could lead to prosecution, advises Keiron Hart
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Get with the programme
30/01/2009
A dialogue needs to be opened between the private and public sectors to aid regeneration
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Changing hands
23/01/2009
Stock swaps and disposals are not as simple as handing over the keys, writes Jonathan Cox
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On the safe side
23/01/2009
Penalties for health and safety offences have been increased, explains Emma Davies of Manches
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Heffernan explained
16/01/2009
The government is facing fresh legal challenges after dodging a House of Lords ruling on housing benefit. Emily Rogers examines how it got into this mess
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Tenants triumph
16/01/2009
The House of Lords has found in favour of the tenants in three tolerated trespasser cases
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Recording decent homes
14/01/2009
Summary of a report looking at different ways of recording numbers of non-decent homes in the social sector.
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LOBOs explained
09/01/2009
Investment management company Traderisks gives its view of the LOBO finance deals that are currently being offered to housing associations
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Final subsidy determination 2009/10
06/01/2009
Social housing consultancy Tribal sets out the key points of the latest subsidy determinations for local authorities that retain their housing stock
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2009 Housing Forecast
02/01/2009
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors gives its predictions for the development of the housing market in 2009.
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Rules of engagement
19/12/2008
Mark Lupton and Samantha McGrady test the strength of the new regulator’s powers
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Skills in strategic housing
16/12/2008
A report from local government best practice body IDeA looking at skills in strategic housing, and what progress has been made in the last year.
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House of Lords verdict on tolerated tresspassers
15/12/2008
Robert Latham, of Doughty Street Chambers, examines how a House of Lords ruling has affected the concept of tolerated tresspassers
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Burden of proof
12/12/2008
A refusal to grant an anti-social behaviour injunction could have long-term consequences, writes Peter Marcus of Arden Chambers
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Collateral calls explained
12/12/2008
Sue Harvey from Campbell Tickell and Howard Webb from Sector Weedon Grant explain the latest crisis to hit housing association finance
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Housing and the credit crunch
10/12/2008
The group of MPs that scrutinises the work of the Communities and Local Government department has been examining the impact of the credit crunch on housing. Here the Chartered Institute of Housing gives its views on the subject.
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Pre-Budget report
10/12/2008
A Chartered Institute of Housing briefing on the pre-Budget report 2008.
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Fit for purpose
05/12/2008
Councils must give prospective tenants sufficient assurance that their homes will be suitable, writes Angela Penn of Weightmans
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Hidden costs
05/12/2008
It is important to consider the tax implications before embarking on a rent to homebuy scheme.
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Assessment of medical need
04/12/2008
Consultancy Housemark looks at different ways to assess the medical need for rehousing, and examines lessons from case law.
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The Queen's speech 2008
04/12/2008
Public policy experts from law firm Clifford Chance outline the 15 bills listed in the Queen’s speech, giving the key elements and policy background to the proposed legislation.
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Variation on a theme
28/11/2008
Existing ASBOs can be extended without appeal, writes Peter Marcus of Arden Chambers
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VAT briefing
26/11/2008
Roy Knowles, VAT expert at consultancy Tribal, outlines how the VAT changes in the pre-budget report will affect housing associations.
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Fair trade
21/11/2008
Tenure make-up must be handled with care, says Ruth Armstrong of HBJ Gateley Wareing
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From recession to recovery
17/11/2008
A Local Government Association paper looking at the impact the expected recession will have on towns, cities, sub-regions, and regions across England.
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Surplus spending
14/11/2008
Local housing companies are being launched at an uncertain time, reports Martin Cannon of Beachcroft
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Obstacle course
07/11/2008
Mortgage rescue is more complex than it looks, say Mike Gaskell and Laurence Target of Trowers & Hamlins
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London's affordable housing goals
31/10/2008
Last week each borough council in London received a letter telling it how many affordable homes mayor Boris Johnson wants it to deliver by 2011.
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The A to Z of VAT
31/10/2008
The rules about when to pay, reclaim or ignore the tax can be complex
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Tenant empowerment
29/10/2008
A New Local Government Network paper outlining how the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 can help empower tenants.
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In the running?
27/10/2008
With 12 eco-town proposals still on the table we examine which may make the final cut, when the latest government consultation ends.
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Heading into the future
17/10/2008
The board members of the government’s new housing and regeneration agency, and its regulatory counterpart, will set the direction of travel for the sector.
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When two become one
03/10/2008
The hows and whys of structural change and partnership
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Community land trusts
16/09/2008
Democratic ownership of land can harness local enthusiasm, say Simon Randall and David Rodgers
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Crunch time for the social housing sector
12/09/2008
Auditors Baker Tilley have carried out a survey of senior housing association executives to establish the impact the credit crunch is having on social housing.
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The review of housing finance
11/09/2008
The government has commissioned a review of the way councils are given funding for housing.
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Who’s who at HCA
05/09/2008
The nine regional directors of the Homes and Communities Agency have been announced. Who’s in charge in your area?
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Housing market package
02/09/2008
A Chartered Institute of Housing overview of the government’s latest proposals to revive the housing market.
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Flexible New Deal
01/09/2008
The government is in the process of replacing its various New Deal employment programmes with a single scheme – the flexible New Deal.
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The Housing and Regeneration Act
29/08/2008
Emma Tarran, partner at law firm Trowers & Hamlins, explains how the Housing and Regeneration Act will change social housing regulation.
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Housing aspirations and shared ownership
27/08/2008
This is one of a series of briefing papers on various aspects of affordable housing prepared by the Housing Corporation and the Chartered Institute of Housing.
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Social exclusion and community cohesion
20/06/2008
A briefing paper on the implications of government policies for housing and neighbourhoods, produced by Housemark.
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RSLs and IT: Operating Costs, Usage and Suppliers
20/06/2008
A briefing prepared by Housemark and Tribal on registered social landlords and the use of information technology.
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The Homes and Communities Agency
20/06/2008
The idea to create a single agency responsible for housing and regeneration in England came from the Housing and Regeneration Review, which was announced in April 2006.
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Decent homes
20/06/2008
In 2000 the government set itself a public service agreement target to make sure all social housing met minimum standards of decency by 2010.
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The Cave review of social housing regulation
20/06/2008
Communities and Local Government asked Professor Martin Cave, from Warwick University, to conduct a review of social housing regulation in December 2006.
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ALMOs and the new local government agenda
20/06/2008
A briefing paper for arm’s-length management organisations, produced by Housemark.