Reminder of Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard deadline – 1 April 2020
From 1 April 2020, the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards will apply to all residential properties let on “relevant tenancies”
Law Society updates TA6 form
The Law Society has published an updated Property Information Form (TA6) and explanatory notes, with changes to four areas, including Japanese knotweed and flood risk
Flood risk practice note updated
On 31 January 2020, the Law Society updated our flood risk practice note with the latest on the prevalence of flood risk, insurance for both residential and commercial properties, and related changes to the Conveyancing Protocol.
Government launches inquiry on Japanese knotweed and the built environment
The Science and Technology Committee intends to hold an oral evidence session in early 2019 to explore the science behind the effects of Japanese Knotweed on the built environment
Features and opinion
Let there be light
As the government further loosens planning restrictions to aid economic recovery, David Manda provides a timely reminder on rights to light, and what developers can do to avoid costly litigation and potential changes to their developments
The black list
Making unauthorised changes to listed buildings or scheduled monuments can carry significant penalties, Beth Harries explains. How should you advise clients looking to buy a property which might be affected?
Building blocks
Anna Russell-Knee provides a beginner’s guide to section 106 obligations, including their purpose, what to consider when one appears on a local search, and the potential effects of the pandemic on these obligations
Clear water
If you are acting for a buyer of a property on a water course, do you know the rights they might have, and the liabilities that might arise? Richard Bagwell outlines the principles
Down to earth
Caroline May and Courtney Hassall provide a guide to common environmental issues which can affect property transactions, and offer tips for property lawyers to mitigate the risks
Onwards and upwards
The government is planning to introduce a new permitted development right for upwards extensions, as part of its plans to deliver new homes. John Pearce outlines the plans and what they might mean in practice
