SDLT – how commercial is ‘commercial’?
In Andrew Charles Ferguson & Gemma May Ferguson v HMRC [2026] TCO9782, the First-tier Tribunal (FTT) found that residential stamp duty land tax (SDLT) rates applied on a property purchase where a let paddock formed part of the grounds of the property. Julie Butler and Fred Butler look at the ...
SDT cases – signatures and undertakings
The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal has recently considered SRA allegations against property lawyers at different ends of the sanctions spectrum: a serious allegation relating to witnessing a signature and a relatively minor allegation on a breach of an undertaking. Nigel West reports
Who’s who?
Robert Wood considers what a recent case of attempted identity fraud can teach us about adapting our processes to beat the scammers
Money for nothing
Property fraud is rising fast, with increasingly sophisticated scams putting buyers, sellers and conveyancers at risk. Claire Revell outlines the key warning signs and the practical steps firms can take to protect clients and safeguard their own exposure
Features and opinion
Tenancies and unfair trading
Recent consumer protection reforms raises the question if tenants are protected from unfair commercial practices in the same way as other consumers. Stephen Cottle examines the implications for residential lettings
A changing landscape
Building safety, leasehold reform, rights of light, service charges, adverse possession, digital property transactions – the courts have recently delivered decisions across the full spectrum of property law. Russell Hewitson considers some of the most significant
Time to retire?
Retirement property transactions raise distinct conveyancing issues, from lease length and age restrictions, to service charges and exit fees. This article highlights the key points conveyancers should consider when advising clients
Building better in Wales
The Building Safety (Wales) Bill marks a significant departure from the English model, extending safety duties across a far broader range of residential buildings. Alex Jones explains how the bill and new regulations will affect developers, landlords and practitioners
Cracking the code
The Electronic Communications Code remains an evolving and contentious area for practitioners. This article considers new regulations harmonising rent and compensation on telecoms tenancy renewals, and highlights recent court and tribunal decisions shaping the rights of operators and site providers
Onwards and upwards?
Bella Bodmer considers the uncertain future of upwards-only rent reviews following the enactment of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026