News
Welcome to our news page. Here you will find out what we’re up to and what we think about recent events and future possibilities.
Tenant Satisfaction Measures from 1 April 2023
The long awaited Decision Statement on the Consultation on the Introduction of Tenant Satisfaction Measures has today been published by the Regulator of Social Housing.
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for Building Owners: Consultation and Government Update
Following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s initial recommendations on Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans, otherwise known as ‘PEEPs’, the Government ran a consultation on proposals for new legal requirements (to be imposed on owners and managers of multi-occupied high-rise residential buildings) to undertake PEEPs for residents in certain circumstances. The consultation also impacted on associated Government guidance on the issue.
Housing Ombudsman’s latest Spotlight Report: Landlords’ engagement with private freeholders and managing agents
On 22 March 2022 the Ombudsman published its latest spotlight report, examining landlords’ engagement with private freeholders and managing agents.
Housing Possession Mediation Pilot Scheme
MHCLG has now published their guidance for the new housing possession mediation service, announced earlier this year.
COVID-19 update: Guidance for social landlords on essential moves published
The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government and Public Health England have jointly published guidance in respect of allocations and transfers during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
COVID-19: An Update on Possession Claims
The Courts may be limited in their ability to progress possession claims following the general stay introduced by Practice Direction 51Z which took effect on 27 March 2020.
Right to Rent survives the Court of Appeal
The Right to Rent Scheme requires landlords (including registered providers of social housing) to check the immigration status of tenants and potential tenants (and licensees).
Electrical safety inspections and private registered providers: why it matters
On 31st October last year the Government published the Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020.
Devonshires succeed in the Court of Appeal on the Public Sector Equality Duty: Forward v Aldwyck Housing Group [2019] EWCA Civ 1334
Devonshires has successfully resisted a further appeal on the application of Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010 (the Public Sector Equality Duty “PSED”) for Aldwyck Housing Group.
Fixed Term Tenancies, Break Clauses + Section 21 Notices
Registered Providers will welcome the decision of the Court of Appeal in this case, which examined the effect of a break clause in a fixed term tenancy which had incorporated a starter period of one year.
Devonshires resists appeal on the Public Sector Equality Duty
Devonshires represented L&Q Housing Trust in the High Court on a tenant’s appeal against a possession order granted in the County Court.
The next challenge for social landlords
Neil Lawlor, Partner, writes for 24housing on the rise of leaseholds, and the implications it can have on Housing Associations.
