HCA clamps down on PFI business plans

Sent back

Wise old owls

Told you so

The prime minister should listen to the advice of his own housing department because there is no more room in the private rented sector, says Jon Cruddas

Ashford Council houses

Changes to government funding structures for social housing allow Councils, for the first time in nearly thirty years, to build directly-owned houses for rent. Capitalising on these changes, Ashford Council embarked on a programme of building that is likely to see some 20 units per year added to the council-owned portfolio using private sector finance to fund the development.

Treasury asks housing sector for help

Ministers are exploring whether the affordable house building programme can be used to boost the flagging economy, as part of an English housing strategy due to be published by Christmas.

Some food for thought

Landlords should assess their level of risk as the Bribery Act comes into force, says Kirsty Thompson, solicitor at Devonshires

Clearing your debts

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

Counting the costs

Just because you are successful at trial doesn’t mean you will recover all your legal costs, says Dan Butler

Dealing with disputes

The standard process for resolving construction disagreements isn’t always the most appropriate, explains Tom Wrzesien, a dispute resolution specialist at law firm TLT

A force for good

Council housing self financing has begun, but what will the new era bring? Steve Partridge examines the possibilities