Whatever your politics on the UK immigration debate, surely few could fail to be moved by the conditions so many asylum seekers find themselves in at the moment. You pray your own family never find themselves in such desperate situations that they are willing to risk life and limb for a better future. It was […]
Read moreLike never before, housing has been in the crosshairs at the very top of Government. It played a crucial role in pre-election debates, and the Queen’s Speech, which included Right to Buy legislation and regulation on lettings agents, proved that housing will be central to the Conservatives’ next five years in office. It feels slightly […]
Read moreWell, that’s another Christmas behind us and our call-out teams have dealt with the thankfully minor dramas encountered by our tenants over the festive period. Onward into 2015 to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Last year I spent so long on the Newcastle to London train I am on first name terms with many of […]
Read moreI have enjoyed several rants on this blog regarding silly legislation which will ultimately harm those it is intended to help. Last month it was landlords being made responsible for checking immigrants’ status and right to reside in the UK. On that occasion Housing charity Shelter was on our side claiming the legislation could put […]
Read moreOctober sees two important changes to regulation in the residential lettings sector, one of which we welcome as long overdue, another as a slightly sinister move to have us act as border police. First the welcome legislation. From October letting agencies must offer a redress scheme to tenants. Reputable agencies that have joined a regulatory […]
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