Property Update

13 April 2017


Latest news and updates

Side letters: a cause for concern

Peter Reekie looks at the recent case of Vivienne Westwood Ltd v Conduit Street Development Ltd [2017] EWHC 350 (Ch). 

New guidance on minimum energy efficiency standards for non-domestic property

In February, the government released new guidance on the operation of the regulations behind the minimum energy efficiency standards for non-domestic property, coming into force in April 2018. Warren Gordon outlines the key points of the guidance.



 
Annual tax on enveloped dwellings - new online service

Returns for the 2017/18 annual tax on enveloped dwellings chargeable period have been available from 1 April through a new HMRC online service.

 
   
HMRC launches new fraud hotline to simplify fraud reporting process

On 4 April, HM Revenue & Customs launched the HMRC Fraud Hotline, a new service designed to simplify the fraud reporting process. The new telephone number and new online form will replace two separate tax evasion and customs hotlines. 


 
Consultation launched on register of overseas property owners

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy is consulting on proposals to create a beneficial ownership register of overseas companies that own UK property or participate in UK government procurement. It states that the call for evidence will be of interest to conveyancing solicitors among others.


 
 

Featured events

Half-day Conveyancing Convention 2017 (23 May)

Hear from Land Registry about their plans for the future!
Take part in a live hack led by cyber security professionals.
Hear about the future of case management.
This is your chance to influence and experience the future of your industry.
Book now - free for members

Dreamvar, Purrunsing, P&P Property - what you need to know about fraud and cyber security 
(Bristol, London, Birmingham, Manchester, Southampton

Want to hear about the impact of recent case law?
Want to utilise technology to protect yourself, your firm and your clients? 
Come and listen to Peter Rodd, our resident expert, who will provide you with a practical understanding of the threats to the property market in your area. 
Attendance is included as part of your Section membership, but please book in advance as this is a popular series. 

National property law conference 2017 (11 October)

As conveyancers and property practitioners, your challenges include growing a practice in a volatile climate, the rise of cyber-crime, and the continued uncertainty of the economy and property markets.
This conference is designed to inform, inspire and support you to overcome these difficulties.
The conference will be running three workshop sessions, encouraging delegates to share best practice, pick up tips from experts and hear success stories from peers.
Book now


More news

FAQ: Rent deposit deeds: what are they and how can they be drafted?
Free video: Smart-size - The drivers of law firm profitability
Nominate your firm for excellence in conveyancing 
Pensions on Divorce: Another witches' Brew (4 May, London)

The Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London, WC2A 1PL. Tel: 020 7242 1222

Job of the week

HM Land Registry

Assistant Land Registrar
Salary: £53,207

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