Tributes paid to lawyer Giles Peaker, who was ‘instrumental’ to fitness for habitation act

“As well as his client work, Giles worked tirelessly to improve the rights of individuals to good housing. He played a major part in drafting the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, which provided a significant step forward in ensuring tenants have a right to healthy and safe housing.

“Giles was also a regular commentator on housing law in the media and the founder and editor of Nearly Legal – a specialist and much-loved housing law website used by lawyers, judges, academics and members of the public alike.”

Legal 500 described Giles as “an outstanding lawyer – dazzlingly clever, persistent, highly effective and cares deeply about his area of law”.

Chambers and partners said he was “fantastic” and “hugely knowledgeable and enthusiastic”.

However, Anthony Gold explained that what was more important to Mr Peaker “were the many glowing testimonials he received from his clients”.

“Giles’ colleagues knew him for his dry wit, immense knowledge and kindness, and as someone who was always willing to give his time to anyone who approached him with a problem,” the firm added.

Andrew Brookes, head of Anthony Gold’s housing department, said: “Giles was an inspirational colleague who I worked with for 20 years.

“His knowledge was legendary and his passion for housing law unmatched. His Nearly Legal blog was both widely used and loved for its clarity, wit and breadth.

“He was instrumental in drafting the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation Act). He will be sorely missed by all of us at Anthony Gold and in the wider housing law world.”

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said: “I’m deeply saddened at the tragic loss of Giles Peaker. Giles was not only an exceptionally talented housing lawyer but a real force for good in the world who played an integral role in the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act. My heartfelt condolences to all who loved him.”

At the time of writing, more than 160 people had left kind words on the law firm’s LinkedIn post announcing Mr Peaker’s passing.

Matt Downie, chief executive of Crisis, said: “This is truly shocking and terrible news. I’m so sorry for all of his friends, family and colleagues.

“Over many years he has been a titan of legal representation, campaigning and the deepest knowledge put to good use. Words can hardly express what a loss his passing is.”