Building safety levy: why commercial property developers should be paying attention
The Building Safety Levy (“Levy”) comes into force on 1 October 2026. It is a new charge on major residential
Kay Piper
Partner
Land and Real Estate
- Bishop's Stortford
Biography
I am an experienced commercial property solicitor with over 20 years’ experience dealing with property transactions for my clients. Previously a Partner in a small, central London law firm, I joined Tees in October 2018 and now manage the real estate team in the Bishop’s Stortford office. I have a broad knowledge of all types of property transactions, including development acquisitions and sales; option, promotion and overage agreements; re-financing; multi-use buildings; leases; leasehold enfranchisement; rights of first refusal; and general land and building sales and purchases. I specialise in complex property transactions and strategic land sales, offering practical, tactical advice to my clients in a professional yet friendly manner.
I act for a wide range of clients, including national and international companies, large landowners, property developers, landlords, tenants and experienced property investors.
Delivering what you really need
I am very personable and proactive in my approach to transactions. I want to understand my clients’ priorities so that I can help them achieve their goals and tailor my advice to their individual needs. I am straight-talking and practical, with excellent communication skills.
Expertise
Awards and accreditations
Further information
I enjoy baking, walking and pottering in the garden. I grow an array of fruits and vegetables at home. I also love spending time outdoors with my family in our holiday home in Devon.
“Kay Piper continues to provide us with unrivalled levels of service and expertise. With her exceptional attention to detail, we know that we are in safe hands with Kay.” Legal 500 UK, 2026, South East – Real estate – Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
“Kay Piper was excellent, always went through any issues that I had thoroughly, I never felt rushed if I asked questions, there was also a tight deadline which she went above and beyond to meet.” Legal 500 UK, 2025, South East – Real estate – Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
“Kay Piper’s knowledge is very valuable. The confidence given by her understanding of our sector is invaluable, whether in land purchase or other estate issues.” Legal 500 UK, 2024, South East – Real estate – Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
“Savill’s top commercial property development partner recommended Govan Bramley of Tees Law to us in 2014. We had previously used our long-standing Hertfordshire solicitor, for counsel on development-land advice.
The increased level of competence, sector specific expertise and know-how was immediately evident.
In what has been a sometimes trying and protracted residential property transaction the Tees Law partners delivered sound advice, exemplary dedication and on-time delivery.
Tees have in depth expertise and Kay Piper who has now taken over much of Govan’s responsibilities more than rose to the challenge.
To find such wide-ranging commercial and residential property development acumen outside London is a rare thing.” Client: Hugo Croft
Articles from Kay
Time called on ground rents: and commonhold back on the agenda
A long-awaited moment for leasehold reform On 27 January, the Prime Minister announced (via TikTok of all places!) the publication
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
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