News

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are swiftly becoming a prominent feature of Kent's housing landscape, with approximately 1,900 such establishments currently accommodating a growing population. This trend is particularly evident in urban centres like Folkestone, home to the largest HMO in the region, which can accommodate up to 52 tenants. The shift towards HMOs, many of which are conversions from...

In a significant turn of events regarding homelessness policies, Shelter Scotland has officially called for a change in the leadership of the City of Edinburgh Council. This demand follows controversy surrounding the council's recent decisions that have provoked strong reactions from advocacy groups. The council's proposal to permit the use of unlicensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) for homeless...

In a significant case highlighting the responsibilities of landlords regarding property maintenance, Bradford landlord Hasan Kazi has pleaded guilty to nine offenses associated with the neglect of two properties under his management on Easby Road. The verdict was reached at the Bradford and Keighley Magistrates' Court on February 20,2024. Kazi's neglect has raised alarms about the standard of living...

In a landmark case, three students residing in a London flat have secured a significant £20,880 in health hazard compensation from their landlord, following alarming findings about the property's unsatisfactory living conditions. The ruling, delivered by a residential property tribunal, spotlighted crucial issues such as dampness, mould, and inadequate fire safety measures, which collectively posed a...

As we move closer to 2025, prospective homebuyers in the UK are faced with a complex housing market characterized by rising house prices and fluctuating mortgage rates. Recent data from Halifax indicates that UK house prices have shown a steady increase over the past four months, culminating in an average price of £268,000 for February 2025, representing a significant4.6% increase compared to the previous...

In November 2024, Rightmove Plc reports a significant upsurge in revenue, aligning with a robust resurgence in the UK housing market. With a notable increase in both property listings and sales transactions, CEO Johan Svanstrom highlights that the market has witnessed a double-digit growth, particularly since October. This trend is reflective of a potential recovery, with current levels of property...

The commercial real estate (CRE) sector is experiencing transformative changes as it moves towards 2025, driven by shifting economic conditions, technology advancements, and evolving consumer behaviors. According to insights published by Deloitte, the landscape for CRE professionals is increasingly complex, necessitating innovative strategies to navigate the current challenges and seize future...

The City of Edinburgh Council has announced a proactive measure to address the increasing issue of homelessness in the city by relocating residents from at least 700 rooms situated in 30 unlicensed properties. This decision, taken in response to regulatory non-compliance and growing concerns from local charities and councillors, aims to improve living conditions amidst a worsening housing crisis. Under...

In a significant ruling by Salford City Council, Student-Haus Limited has been fined £13,160 for serious breaches of safety regulations concerning a multi-occupancy rented property. After an inspection in November 2023, numerous violations were identified, particularly regarding inadequate fire escape routes and poorly maintained common areas in the House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). The council's...

In recent years, Kent has witnessed a significant surge in the number and popularity of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), with nearly 2,000 properties across the region now classified as such. These HMOs create unique living conditions where residents rent rooms individually within shared properties, often sharing common facilities. Despite their growing prevalence, concerns surrounding the quality of...