Legal
‘Epic change’ for lawyers as the Land Registry relaxes its rules
"It’s rare that the Land Registry does anything which anyone outside the world of property law might want to read about," says top property lawyer Nicky Richmond, "but today, May 4th, is that day."
High-street law firms under ‘immediate threat’ as housing market grinds to a halt
71% of high-street firms believe they may have to close their doors in the next six months as result of the current crisis, warns the Law Society
Former RIBA president’s practice sued over swimming pool design
Jane Duncan Architects is reported to have admitted that it "fell below the standard of a reasonably competent architect" on a private residential project in Hertfordshire, but is contesting the extent …
Muve plans ‘aggressive’ expansion into UK’s £1.75bn conveyancing market
Fledgling law firm defies dire market conditions to complete £1.1m equity funding round
One Blackfriars trial to go ahead despite lockdown
High Court Judge rules that Coronavirus restrictions should not delay a high-stakes property hearing.
High Court quashes Crime Agency’s super-prime Unexplained Wealth Orders
The NCA says it will appeal the decision, as it continues to go after Kazakh-owned luxury properties in Hampstead, Highgate and Chelsea.
Developer loses £600k legal battle with law firm over ‘lost’ opportunity
Breach of care and lost opportunity examined in the case of Taray Investments Ltd & Anor v Gateley Heritage LLP
Virtual Sanity: On video viewings & caveat emptor
Agents and developers are turning to virtual viewings and tours en masse as a way of generating sales during the lockdown, but what happens in the event of a misrepresentation claim? Could a video be …
Covid-19 clauses let tenants defer super-prime deals
Knight Frank is writing "Covid-19 clauses" into super-prime lettings agreements, enabling tenants to secure a property but only start paying rent once the Coronavirus lockdown is lifted.
PRS FAQ: Covid-19 guidance for landlords & tenants
How should private landlords, tenants and letting agents navigate new, existing and ending tenancies in the Coronovirus lockdown? The Tenancy Deposit Scheme provides some practical answers...
Is moving home essential? Agents, conveyancers & builders unsure of Coronavirus lockdown guidance
Obey the spirit of the lockdown, not just the letter. But Housing Secretary Jenrick confirms that building sites in England can remain open.
FT: Uncovering London’s hidden property wealth
Writing for the Financial Times, Nathan Brooker reports from the front line in the war against dirty money