Tenants Vs. Landlords

 

A new survey conducted by Ocean Finance reveals that half of those who rent privately have been ‘ripped off’ by either their landlord or letting agent.  The poll conducted from 2,000 UK adults shows a high level of dissatisfaction amongst tenants in regards to the service they receive.  The reasons given were:

·         53% of tenants were unhappy due to a failure to do repairs

·         47% of tenants were unhappy by the delays in getting things fixed

·         37% of tenants were unhappy about tenancy deposits not being refunded

·         25% of tenants were unhappy with the unreasonable reductions from the tenancy deposit

·         23% of tenants were unhappy with the unreasonable  increases in rent

·         22% of tenants were unhappy being handed unreasonable fees to start the tenancy agreement process.

As a result, Citizens Advice Bureau has highlighted that there has been a growing concern among private tenants who are facing evictions despite being up to date on their rent payments. In addition to this, the CAB is also witnessing a 38% increase in those without rent arrears who have been threatened with an eviction. According to the CAB, over 5,000 issues in regards to tenant evictions have been reported in both 2013 and 2014. Around 3,750 issues had been reported the year before.

So what about buying a home?

Latest statistics show that more and more people are teaming up in order to buy a home. New research conducted by Santander Insurance shows that 22% of people who wish to make a joint purchase within the next 2 years will do so with their unmarried partner. 13% of those wishing to purchase will share the purchase with their parents, whilst 4% will make a joint purchase with a friend or other relative.

23% believe that the main reason for making a joint purchase is that it is the only way for them to get their foot on the property ladder. Other statistics show that only one fifth of those planning to make a joint purchase will do so as they simply want to live with that person. Whilst 16% will make a joint purchase as they believe that it will leave them less financially stretched. And finally, 15% will do so in order to afford a larger property.

So whether you are a tenant or a landlord in need of some legal advice, contact us at LawStore Conveyancing today for a straightforward and jargon free solution.  If you’re thinking of making a joint purchase on a property then visit us in store today to ensure all the legal forms needed are completed and up to date. Or simple call us on 0845 603 6544 or visit us online.

At LawStore conveyancing, we offer a fast and cost effective solution to all your conveyancing needs. Get a free online conveyancing quote when you visit us online and see how much we can save you.

Working hours get more flexible!

A change in the law has now allowed all employees to request flexible working hours. This right was previously only reserved for carers and those caring for children. This change should now see an estimated 20 million people with the right to ask for flexibility in their working hours. Also as a result, employees can now expect their requests to be considered “in a reasonable manner” by employers.

This change of law will affect everyone with more than six months service within a company.  The government believes that this change will help boost morale as well as productivity within business. It has also been argued that the extension of flexible working rights will be of a particular interest to employees who are approaching their retirement stage as well as young workers who are also carrying out additional training.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has also suggested that “Modern businesses know that flexible working boosts productivity and staff morale, and helps them keep their top talent so that they can grow”. With this mind, many have argued that this is true as flexibility given by employers will make them more attractive than others, which in return will help them to retain the best talent. Furthermore, this will also potentially stop many employees leaving and finding work elsewhere. In a way, this flexibility will enable people to create a better balance between work and home life.

Conversely, many have argued that this extended law is not necessary, as without it, you can still ask your employer for flexible work time in which he or she can still say no. And even with this change in the law, an employer can still say no. In addition to this, it has been suggested that not all businesses can afford to do this as one person’s idea of flexibility can be another’s nightmare. Moreover, in the long term some have argued also that if an employer offers say one, two or three employee’s flexible working time then how long before others will ask for the same.

So what’s your opinion?

If you are concerned about your working hours then contact us today or visit our working time regulations page to find out more. It’s always good to be in the know!