Countdown to the MEES Deadline: What to know

Commercial properties are required to be more energy efficient now than ever before. EPCs and MEES It is crucial for all landlords, investors, developers, and tenants to stay informed about the imminent modifications to MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) and EPC regulations. Failure to adhere to the 1st April deadline and comply with the necessary […]

Building Safety Act: Leaseholder and landlord certificates

What is the Building Safety Act 2022? The Building Safety Act 2022 is new legislation which has brought major changes to give homeowners and tenants more rights, powers and protection so that homes will be safer all over the country. If you are a landlord, please refer to our article Building safely act and fire safety act […]

Legal cover insurance: The freedom to choose your preferred solicitor

If you or your business has the benefit of legal cover insurance, chances are you will never need to rely on it. But should a circumstance arise in which it’s necessary to seek legal assistance, it’s important for you to know the full extent of your rights, especially in relation to appointing your own solicitor. […]

HMRC changes in processing option to tax form

From 1 February 2023, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will no longer confirm the existence of an option to tax when requested to do so by property owners or solicitors, except in specific circumstances. These circumstances are limited to where the option to tax was likely to have been notified more than 6 years ago […]

What happens on completion day?

The day of completion is the final step in the house buying and selling process.  It is the pre-arranged date when the financial and legal formalities are concluded, and the ownership of the property is transferred from the seller to the buyer. On the day of completion, the following steps typically take place: The buyers’ […]

Brain injury at birth negligence claims

It is very rare for babies to suffer a serious brain injury at birth. However, the effects can be absolutely devastating and lifelong for babies and their families. Some signs and symptoms of brain damage can be detected shortly after birth. However, this is not always so and some symptoms may not be apparent until […]

The legal rights of unmarried couples living together

Living together without getting married is a common choice for many couples. However, it’s essential to understand the legal differences between cohabiting and being married. Unlike married couples, unmarried partners don’t have the same legal protections if the relationship ends or one partner passes away. In this guide, Joshua Coombe, Partner and Family Law Solicitor […]

Advice for employers on home working

The expectation for flexible working is becoming more and more in demand.  According to the office for national statistics, more than 8 in 10 workers who had to work from home during the coronavirus pandemic said they planned to do hybrid work. Government proposals around changing the rules around flexible working requests include reducing the […]

Buying a listed building

Many buildings in England that were built before the Victorian era, are listed buildings, so it’s not that unusual to find yourself considering buying one. Before you take the plunge, read our guide covering what you need to know about owning a listed building. Listed buildings are protected by law This means owners need listed-building […]

Can schools ban sausage rolls? Understanding healthy eating policies in schools

A primary school in Bradford found itself under fire from some parents who have called the school’s new healthy eating policy “ridiculous.” The school banned items such as sausage rolls, pork pies and squash from packed lunch boxes in a bid to encourage healthy living at an early age. The policy is a whole school policy impacting […]

Divorce financial settlements: Your comprehensive guide

Navigating the financial aspects of a divorce can be overwhelming. One of the most important steps is reaching a fair financial settlement, ensuring both parties can move forward independently. While every divorce is unique, this guide outlines how settlements are typically decided, the factors that influence them, and how you can protect your financial future. […]

My career as a commercial property lawyer

High-quality work right on my doorstep: As part of our new series of ‘talk to Tees’ we will be talking to our lawyers and other team members about their time and experiences. In our first episode we speak to Kay Piper, commercial property partner, about her move from a London firm to Tees. Q: Why […]