• Phone: 0161 249 5087
  • Fax: 0161 445 4494
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Versus law Solicitors
351 Reviews
  • DM

    The conveyancing process took about 11 weeks with no chain at either end. Umar was able to arrange everything to happen on my requested completion date towards the end of March, which was close to the April stamp duty deadline so this was appreciated.

  • D Rahman

    I would like to share my recent experience using the service of Versus Law solicitors and they are brilliant.. my purchase was a rapid sale and I only had 6 weeks to do the completion and beat the deadline of stamp duty rise and I was able to complete 10 days before the deadline.
    Umar Shamly who was dealing with my file was absolutely brilliant very informative very helpful very professional and easy to reachable. He was always prompt with the responses .
    They made the whole process very easy and smooth for me .
    Will definitely recommend them to friends and family

  • Storm

    I had a very smooth service from Versus Law, and my solicitor Umar was always very quick to respond which makes the world of difference

  • A Ali

    Versuslaw especially Anita Craig helped so kindly from 2018 for pia delay flight claim which was showing possible but Ms Anita Craig proved it again that versus law can do it. Thank you will use again and recommend 100percent.

  • R Nabi

    We have just completed on a buy and sell having used Versus Law for both sides of the transaction.
    Versus Law have been immense throughout, with the Conveyancer looking after our ‘purchase’ working hand in hand with his colleagues to keep us informed of how the ‘sell’ was progressing too.
    Amazing bunch of people. There should be more firms providing this high level of service.

  • B Keane

    Very professional and up to the task
    I found versus law straight forward and very helpful.

  • K Boon

    i recently completed on a property and was guided really well by Katrina and Lisa. Ive never purchased a property before so really didn’t know what was involved. It was easy and seamless no stress at all followed by a price that was so much cheaper than other quotes I’d had

  • M Rehman

    Having had my PIA flight delayed for over 5 hours.. Anita Craig of versus law solicitors was a great help. Every step was made easy for me to understand and I will definitely be recommending yourselves to family and friends.

  • J Nugent

    They made the whole process of my injury claim
    simple and straight forward, They even managed to get
    me my compensation before Christmas which I wasn’t expecting, A big thanks to Kulbinder Mehay

  • Steven P

    Excellent work, thank you.

  • Liz

    Nicola Nolan and Natalie Moylan are an excellent conveyancing team. We have used them more than once and recommend them to friends and family (who were also impressed). This time they were involved in us buying a property in Wales and kept us informed all the way through, even with covid restrictions causing problems. They are friendly, efficient and get the job done in a no-nonsense way which is what you need. They take the stress out of conveyancing for you. Very impressed and would recommend to anyone and everyone.

  • Gem

    I was selling my home which had a complicated title and versus law was recommended to me. Natalie Moylan handled my case from start to finish and I couldn’t ask for anyone better! There were no obstacles that couldn’t be overcome and in a very fast turn around too. The sale completed in no time at all. Natalie was timely, professional and friendly and an absolute pleasure to have on my side. I would strongly recommend Versus law to anyone.

  • Bonnie

    I have used the services of Nicola Nolan at Versus Law twice this year and was instantly put at ease and very impressed with the help received and the outcome achieved. Would recommend without hesitation

  • Daniel

    I called to get some documents certified, the ladies on reception were so helpful. I am very happy with the service I received and will use Versus Law again.

  • M

    Dealt with my flight claim hassle free and super quick, I was continuously updated every step of the way and overall really pleased with the outcome. A personal thank you to Anita as she couldn’t have made it easier for me and saw through any problems I had!

  • Richard

    I purchased my first home in February, and used Versus as my solicitor. I dealt with Natalie Moylan from start to finish, who was excellent throughout. The purchase ended up being delayed and resulted in a quite hectic finish, but Natalie remained calm and professional at all times, whilst providing a very high quality of work. My thanks to Natalie and her team, for making a long purchase so much easier!

  • C Savage

    We were selling our house (through Nick) and buying a house (through Natalie) and I can honestly say these are the best solicitors we’ve ever used (we had always used ones in London previously). They both kept us informed on a regular basis as to how things were progressing which I really valued and they were quick to respond to any queries I asked. They were professional, efficient, helpful and really nice to deal with. We were recommended Versus through local friends that have used them previously and I would definitely recommend Versus to anyone else asking me for a recommendation.
    Thanks again Natalie and Nick.

  • J Percy

    We used Nicola Nolan for our purchase/transfer of ownership. She was excellent from start to finish. We were fully informed of the process throughout and she was always friendly, approachable and very professional at all times. Would definitely recommend her at Versus Law. Thank you again

  • J Guntren

    Amazing law firm for conveyancing!! My wife and I made an offer on a house 24th September and we were moved in by 20th December. It should also be noted that we were selling my wife’s apartment at the same time (also using Versus), further complicating everything. Thanks to Natalie, everything was done in a very efficient manner and she was very understanding of our situation.

  • P Godfrey

    Many thanks to Anita and all the staff at Versuslaw, they made my flight compensation claim for delay a breeze. I would highly recommend them

  • G Ryder

    The service and advise that we received from Versuslaw was exceptional. We had numerous issues with the house that we were buying and the team at Versus law guided us through the process whilst always looking out for our best interest.They were always prompt in responding to any question that we had and would update us on a regular basis. Thanks again to Nicola, Nick and Francine

  • Mark

    Excellent, professional and friendly work from Nick, Nicola and Natalie. They were flexible and very helpful in pushing along the sale despite several hurdles. Would definitely use again in future and would recommend others do so too

  • C Keen

    Absolutely superb service from Nicola Nolan. Highly trust and recommend. Honest attention to detail.

  • V Griffith

    We would like to say a big heartfelt thank you to Saqib Kazam versuslaw
    Once he took our case in for Holiday compensation He kept us up to date with every thing explaining every step he took this was not an easy case but he got us an excellent result a kind polite very professional young man. Highly recommend

  • J Williams

    From the moment we rung Versus Law and spoke to the receptionist on the phone to the moment we completed on our first home, Versus Law were excellent. Our solicitor was Tom and not only did he keep us updated every step of the way but he was very professional, efficient, offered valuable advice and made the process of buying a house stress free. We couldn’t recommend Versus Law enough and we just wanted to say a huge thank you to Tom and the team. Joe and Kara

  • S Foster

    Sarah handled my claim quickly and efficiently. It made the whole process easy and stress free. She was very professional and kept me informed every step. I would highly recommend Versuslaw.

  • H Cooper

    We would highly recommend Versus law, especially Nick Wintrip (selling) and Nicola Nolan (buying). They both kept us up to date throughout the whole process. They were easy to get hold of and were very prompt to answer any questions/email. We would have no hesitation in recommending Versus law for conveyancing.

  • I Asaf

    Fantastic service, very helpful and kept me informed at every stage

  • M Long

    From start to finish Versus Law have been professional and helpful. Tom Reid was always available to talk to us and gave us updates regularly meaning we did not have to constantly chase up matters. We are very happy by the service and would recommend to anyone looking for a reliable solicitor.

  • Jill T

    Excellent service. I was kept informed every step of the way. Natalie Moylan and Renee Burke were a pleasure to work with. Highly professional but with a personal touch. They both went above and beyond!

  • Danielle

    Excellent service from start to finish from Nicola and Natalie! Super responsive to emails and all my questions as a first time single buyer. Natalie and Nicola make a great team and are so approachable. Definitely recommend them for property related legal services.

  • Frankie

    Really happy with my experience using versus law, from start to finish they put my mind at ease as I wasn’t buying a house in the normal way, it was through a family divorce and there were time scales and dead lines to meet, versus law managed to conker my mortgage and speed things up to avoid any extra costs, nicola was always there to ease my mind when I had any concerns as things do get stressful whilst purchasing a property, the ladies on the reception we also a delight and couldn’t do more to make you feel comfortable in any situation, if you are thinking of using versus law to assist you through your mortgage then look no further as these guys couldn’t have done more for me, I couldn’t have been happier with my experience

  • Matt W

    Nicola Nolan’s conveyancing service has always been excellent, I have used them several times in the last 5 years. In particular for my business I have found their relationship and understanding of Paragon Bank to be very useful. I would highly recommend.

  • Kay

    Excellent decision to go with Versus Law! Nick Wintrip handled the very stressful job of our house sale with professionalism, calmness and a good sense of humour. We did everything via email, phone and post, and he was always quick in responding and keeping me updated every step of the way. Very competitively priced too. I would highly recommend Versus Law without the slightest hesitation.

  • O Li

    Thomas Reid dealt with the sale and purchase of our properties. He was a pleasure to work with – very quick to respond to queries and very efficient in his work. As a result, the process went very smoothly with minimal delays. I would highly recommend competitively priced Versus Law and especially the professionalism of Thomas Reid.

  • Mr RS

    Natalie Moylan dealt with the sale and purchase on my behalf. The whole process was very well handled with constant updates. The first solicitors I’ve used that’s responds within to an email within an hour! Would 100% use again!!!

  • Mrs LC

    Recently dealt with Nick Wintrip at Versus law when selling my property. Found him to be professional, quick and thorough. Process went smoothly and I was well informed throughout the process. I received regular updates and all enquiries were dealt with efficiently. Nick made the whole process of selling my home stress free and a happy one! Your the best Nick – thank you again 🙂
    Will highly recommend Versus Law Solicitors. They are the best

  • Jaxx

    Would recommend Versus Law for conveyancing; Nick and Natalie we’re our team with Nick the main contact, thank you Nick and Natalie for making the conveyancing experience as stress free as possible.

  • Paula

    Great experience working with Versus Law. Excellent level of professionalism from Thomas Reid who provided clear, precise information. Highly recommended from my side. Thanks to Tom and the team.

  • D

    Fantastic experience with Natalie and her colleagues. Email updates throughout the home buying process, estimates of how long it would take to get her work completed and local knowledge which speeded up the process. 100% recommended.

  • R Napier

    Really good and really helpful got things sorted alot quicker than anticipated very cooperative

  • Wetherill

    What an outstanding team they turned my purchase around within the set time frame and very professional at all times.
    They went above and beyond reassured myself throughout the process.
    As being a first time buyer I felt this was most important I would recommend them highly.

  • Nasir

    Versus Law dealt with my house sale from start to finish in a most professional manner. A friendly, professional, competent team who get the job done within the time parameters. I highly recommend this firm.

  • Colin and Yvonne

    Absolutely brilliant service as always.
    This is the third time using Versuslaw and they never fail to impress. Natalie and Nicola are real diamonds and you really get the sense that they actually care about you.

    We actually live in London, but continued to use them for our London property because of our previous experience with them.
    Thank you guys, would highly recommend you to anyone.

  • B Man

    Excellent service!!! We are really happy with the service VersusLaw provided to us. Being first time buyer, we dint have much idea about the whole process and had lots of questions. They have given proper and clear response on time to everything we have requested. For us, one of the property got cancelled in between the process because the owner decided to not to sell that property few days after accepting our offer. Though there were searches and procedures done already for that property VersusLaw did not ask Fee for that purchase as they understood the difficult situation we were in. When we found our next property, we had no doubt whom to contact. We are really happy and totally satisfied by the service Nicola, Natalie and their team offered. We will highly recommend your service to anyone,

  • Ross Grant

    Today I have completed on the purchase of my very first apartment, and it just wouldn’t have been possible without the INCREDIBLE knowledge, guidance and GENUINE care of Nicola, Natalie, and the entire Versus Law team.

    This purchase was far from straightforward, with lots of potential pitfalls – all navigated with professionalism, patience and an impeccable attention to detail by Nicola.

    Nic went well above and beyond the call of duty to look into some extremely complex accounts and repair budgets to the apartment block in question – something I would have completely overlooked.

    As a result, with her guidance, I managed to negotiate a £2,000 reduction in asking price – something I’m sure other solicitors would have let slip through the net.

    That’s a genuine £2000 saving – a lot of money for a first-time buyer.

    You get a real sense that these guys actually CARE – they make you feel more like a friend, than a client – and don’t leave a stone unturned when it comes to conveyancing. If there is anything to uncover on a property, trust me, Nicola will find it!

    In essence, Versus Law made what could have been a rather stressful situation, easy and straightforward.

    Communications and response times were brilliant, with daily updates coming via phone and email – and I never felt rushed by anyone when I had queries.

    I honestly cannot recommend Versus Law enough.

    I’m going to pick up the keys to my apartment now – and won’t be using anyone other than these guys for all future property purchases/ sales.

    THANK YOU SO MUCH Versus Law – I’ll be raising a glass of champagne to you all at the housewarming! 🙂

  • CW

    Great service provided by Nicola and her team.
    Always communicating with updates for the completion of my property.
    Would highly recommend

  • Jackie

    I used Versus Law to buy my first house. Had no idea how it worked but I must say that the conveyancing team held my hand all the way through. On the day of completion there was a delay and they stayed in office late to ensure it went through so I wasn’t waiting over the weekend. It was an absolute pleasure to deal with Versus Law and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them. It was nice to speak to people who I felt cared for me and put my interests first at all times. Thank you so much for your help

  • Andy

    Versus were great to deal with when they provided the conveyancing for my house purchase. I was able to complete the process without needing to physically travel to their offices and my solicitor was always available for any questions when I was completing all the paperwork. Everyone was very friendly to speak to.

  • T Baguley

    Fantastic conveyancing service from Nicola and Natalie, they kept on top of everything from start to finish and were always available whenever we had questions. I’d be happy to recommend them to anyone.

  • David JC

    Very impressed with every aspect of Versus Law, from service they provide to the attitude of the staff. Always called back when they said they would and had a laugh with them too. Will definately use again (if I need to).

  • Mrs Morris

    I would recommend Versus Law to anyone, particularly Nick Wintrip, who looked after us extremely well. They are very efficient and communicated with us fully at all times. We were able to contact them by phone and e mail and did not need to rely on letter going back and forth. Nick is really friendly too and put us at ease throughout the end to end sales process. Thank you.

  • Tanita

    Nicola and Natalie did a wonderful job. They were friendly and patient. Answered my many many questions and got the job done very efficiently. I am highly impressed and would definitely recommend them.

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Author: numan

M Ayaz


my wife had problems with a flight delay.
Versus law dealt professionally. kept us informed. also answered any questions.
Thanks for a good prompt service.

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What is a Possession Trust?


When it comes to planning your estate and ensuring your loved ones are taken care of, understanding the various types of trusts available is crucial. One such trust is a Possession Trust, also known as an Interest in Possession Trust. This article will explain what a Possession Trust is, why you might consider setting one up, and the advantages and disadvantages of this type of trust.

What is a Possession Trust?

A Possession Trust is a type of trust where the beneficiary has the immediate right to receive income from the trust assets or to use the trust property. This beneficiary is often referred to as the life tenant. The trust assets are managed by trustees, who are responsible for ensuring the income or use of the assets is provided to the life tenant.

For example, if you place a property in a Possession Trust, the life tenant could live in the property rent-free for the rest of their life. Upon their death, the property would then pass to the other beneficiaries, known as remaindermen.

Why You Might Want a Possession Trust

There are several reasons why you might consider setting up a Possession Trust:

  • Providing for Loved Ones: A Possession Trust can ensure that a loved one, such as a spouse or partner, has a secure place to live or a steady income after your death.
  • Estate Planning: It allows you to plan the distribution of your estate more effectively, particularly if you have complex family arrangements, like children from a previous marriage.
  • Tax Efficiency: Depending on the structure of the trust and the assets involved, there can be potential tax benefits, particularly in terms of Inheritance Tax.

Advantages of a Possession Trust

  • Security for Beneficiaries: The life tenant has a guaranteed right to income or use of the property, providing financial security.
  • Control Over Asset Distribution: You can control how and when the trust assets are distributed, which can be particularly useful in ensuring that your wishes are followed.
  • Potential Tax Benefits: While the life tenant is responsible for paying income tax on any income received, the trust can sometimes offer advantages in terms of reducing Inheritance Tax liabilities.
  • Flexibility: The trust can be tailored to your specific needs and circumstances, providing flexibility in managing your estate.

Disadvantages of a Possession Trust

  • Complexity: Setting up and managing a Possession Trust can be complex, requiring professional legal and financial advice to ensure it is structured correctly and remains compliant with the law.
  • Costs: There are costs associated with setting up a trust, including legal fees and ongoing management costs.
  • Tax Implications: While there can be tax benefits, there are also potential tax liabilities. For example, the life tenant is responsible for paying income tax on any income received from the trust, and there may be Capital Gains Tax implications for the trust itself.
  • Potential for Disputes: If the terms of the trust are not clear, or if there are disagreements among beneficiaries, it can lead to disputes and potential legal challenges.

A Possession Trust can be a valuable tool in your estate planning arsenal, offering security and financial stability for your loved ones. However, it is essential to understand the complexities involved and to seek professional advice to ensure it is the right choice for your specific situation. At Versus Law, we are here to help guide you through the process, providing expert advice and support to ensure your estate planning needs are met effectively and efficiently.

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Why You Should Consider Downsizing Your Home


In recent years, the concept of downsizing one’s home has become increasingly popular, especially among those seeking a simpler, more manageable lifestyle. At Versus Law, we often advise our clients on the legal and practical considerations of selling their larger homes for something more suited to their current needs. Here, we explore several compelling reasons why downsizing your home could be a beneficial decision.

Financial Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of downsizing is the potential financial gain. Selling a larger home and moving to a smaller property can often free up equity that can be used to bolster your savings, invest, or enjoy life’s other pleasures without the burden of financial strain. Additionally, smaller properties typically incur lower council tax, utility bills, and maintenance costs, which can substantially reduce your monthly expenditures.

Simplified Living

A smaller home means less space to clean, less maintenance, and fewer chores. This can be particularly appealing as one ages or for those wanting to minimize the time spent on home upkeep to free up time for hobbies, travel, or family. Simplified living also promotes a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle by reducing energy consumption and encouraging a less materialistic approach to life.

Better Location

Downsizing can sometimes offer the opportunity to relocate to a more desirable area. Whether it’s moving closer to central urban amenities, downsizing to a countryside cottage, or even relocating to be nearer to family or good schools, smaller properties in prime locations can sometimes be more affordable and convenient than larger homes in less desirable areas.

Emotional Relief

The emotional relief that comes with downsizing should not be underestimated. Owning a large home can often bring with it worries and stress related to its maintenance and financial costs. Moving to a smaller home can alleviate these pressures, leading to a better quality of life and improved mental health.

Preparing for the Future

For those approaching retirement or those whose children have flown the nest, downsizing can be a proactive step in planning for the future. It can make aging in place more manageable and safer, reducing the risks associated with navigating and maintaining a larger property as mobility decreases.

Legal and Practical Considerations

At Versus Law, we help our clients navigate the legal intricacies of selling a property and purchasing a new one. This includes dealing with the conveyancing process, understanding the implications of downsizing related to inheritance tax planning, and more. Our expertise ensures that the transition to a smaller home is as smooth and beneficial as possible.

Downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space—it’s about making a lifestyle choice that can lead to greater financial freedom, simpler living, and emotional well-being. If you’re considering this step, it’s important to seek expert advice to make informed decisions that align with your personal and financial goals.

At Versus Law, we’re here to provide you with the professional guidance and support you need during this transition. Whether you’re looking to downsize for financial reasons, seeking a simpler way of life, or preparing for the future, our team is here to help every step of the way. Use our free conveyancing calculator to get a no obligation quote.

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What is an Offshore Trust


In today’s world, safeguarding assets has become increasingly crucial. One such method gaining popularity is putting your home into an offshore trust. This strategy raises numerous questions: What is an offshore trust? Why would someone choose this option? What are the potential advantages and disadvantages? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into these questions to provide you with a clear understanding of offshore trusts and help you decide if this is the right option for you.

What is an Offshore Trust?

An offshore trust is a legal arrangement where assets, such as property, investments, or cash, are transferred into a trust located in a jurisdiction outside of one’s home country. These jurisdictions, often referred to as tax havens, offer favorable legal and financial conditions, including tax benefits and increased privacy.

Why Might You Want One?

There are several reasons why individuals consider placing their home into an offshore trust:

  • Asset Protection: Offshore trusts provide a layer of protection against lawsuits, creditors, and other legal claims. By transferring ownership of your home to an offshore trust, you shield it from potential risks and ensure its preservation for future generations.
  • Tax Efficiency: Many offshore jurisdictions offer favorable tax regimes, including lower or zero capital gains, inheritance, and estate taxes. By establishing an offshore trust, you can minimise your tax liability and maximise the wealth passed on to your heirs.
  • Privacy: Offshore trusts offer a higher level of confidentiality compared to domestic arrangements. Your personal and financial information remains protected from public scrutiny, safeguarding your privacy and security.
  • Estate Planning: Offshore trusts can be a valuable tool for estate planning purposes. By structuring your assets in a trust, you can control how they are distributed after your passing, ensuring your wishes are carried out according to your specifications.

Advantages of Offshore Trusts:

  • Tax Benefits: Offshore jurisdictions often have lenient tax laws, allowing you to reduce or eliminate certain taxes on your assets.
  • Asset Protection: Offshore trusts provide a robust shield against legal threats, safeguarding your assets from potential creditors or lawsuits.
  • Privacy: Your financial affairs remain confidential, as offshore jurisdictions typically offer greater privacy protections than domestic arrangements.
  • Estate Planning Flexibility: Offshore trusts offer greater flexibility in structuring your estate plan, allowing you to customise provisions according to your specific needs and preferences.

Disadvantages of Offshore Trusts:

  • Complexity: Establishing and managing an offshore trust can be complex and require expert guidance to navigate the legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Cost: Offshore trust administration fees and legal expenses can be higher compared to domestic arrangements, potentially outweighing the tax benefits for smaller estates.
  • Regulatory Risks: Offshore jurisdictions may face increased scrutiny and regulatory changes, posing potential risks to the stability and legality of the trust structure.
  • Reputation Concerns: Some individuals may have reservations about the perceived stigma associated with offshore trusts, particularly in light of concerns about tax evasion and money laundering.

In conclusion, placing your home into an offshore trust can be a strategic financial decision with significant benefits, including asset protection, tax efficiency, and privacy. However, it is essential to weigh the advantages against the potential disadvantages and consider your individual circumstances and objectives carefully.

If you are considering establishing an offshore trust or would like more information, contact Versus Law today. Our team of legal experts can provide personalised guidance and support to help you make informed decisions about securing your assets for the future.

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10 Signs of Housing Disrepair You Should Never Ignore


Living in a council or housing association property in the UK presents a unique set of challenges and responsibilities, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy and safe living environment. As a tenant, it’s essential to be proactive in recognising and addressing signs of housing disrepair, not just for the comfort and wellbeing of all occupants but also to prevent potential health and safety risks.

Below are ten critical signs of housing disrepair that should never be ignored, along with insights into their implications and the steps tenants can take to address them effectively. If you are experiencing any of these issues you may have a housing disrepair claim.

Damp and Mould: A Health Hazard Lurking in the Walls

Dampness and mould in a property are more than just an aesthetic issue; they represent significant health hazards. Mould, which can appear in shades of black, green, or white, is often accompanied by a musty odor and can severely impact air quality, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Tenants noticing signs of damp and mould should report these conditions to their landlords immediately to facilitate swift remediation efforts.

Water Leaks and Flooding: Preventing Structural Damage

Water ingress, whether through leaks in the roofing, piping, or windows, poses immediate threats to both personal property and the building’s structural integrity. The importance of reporting leaks cannot be overstressed, as the continuous presence of water not only contributes to the development of damp and mould but also weakens building materials, leading to costly and extensive repairs.

Cracks or Damage to the Structure: Indicators of Potential Danger

Visible structural damage, such as cracks in walls or foundations, could indicate serious underlying issues like subsidence, poor construction, or natural wear and tear. These signs should prompt immediate action, as they can compromise the building’s safety and integrity, posing direct risks to its inhabitants.

Pest Infestations: A Threat to Health and Wellbeing

The presence of pests, including rodents, cockroaches, and bedbugs, can significantly impact the living conditions within a property. Beyond the immediate discomfort and distress they cause, pests are vectors for diseases, contaminate food, and can cause considerable damage to property. Prompt reporting and addressing of infestations are crucial steps in maintaining a healthy living environment.

Faulty or Inadequate Heating Systems: Ensuring Warmth and Wellbeing

Adequate heating is essential for comfort, particularly during the colder months. Faulty or inadequate heating systems can leave tenants vulnerable to the cold, increasing the risk of cold-related illnesses. It is vital for tenants to report any issues with heating systems promptly to ensure timely repairs and maintain a suitable living temperature. Elderly people are particulary at risk.

Broken Windows or Doors: Compromising Security and Comfort

Damaged or non-functional windows and doors not only increase the risk of unauthorized entry but also contribute to energy loss, dampness, and discomfort. Maintaining these essential components in good working order is crucial for ensuring both the security and energy efficiency of a property. In addition to this there is a safety consideration to be made when doors are hanging off their hinges and windows have malfunctioning locking mechanisms.

Unsafe Electrical Systems: A Hazard to Tenant Safety

Electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring, malfunctioning outlets, and frequent power surges, pose significant risks of electric shock or fire. Addressing these issues immediately, preferably by a qualified electrician, is imperative for the safety of all occupants.

Plumbing Issues: Avoiding Water Damage and Inconvenience

Plumbing problems can lead to water damage, unsanitary conditions, and considerable inconvenience. Persistent issues should be reported and addressed promptly to prevent escalating damage and maintain sanitary living conditions. Issues such as leaking taps, toilets, boilers that constantly need to be topped up, water ingress into cellars as well as issues with drainage and sewage backup.

Poor Ventilation: The Invisible Enemy

Inadequate ventilation contributes to moisture buildup and mould growth, compromising air quality and exacerbating health issues, particularly for those with preexisting respiratory conditions. Ensuring proper ventilation is a key step in preventing these problems. If you notice a window/wall that is always wet then it could indicate a ventilation issue.

Asbestos or Hazardous Materials: Hidden Dangers

In older properties, the presence of asbestos or other hazardous materials can pose serious health risks. Tenants should report any suspicion of these materials to enable professional assessment and safe management.

Conclusion

If you are a council or housing association tenant and are suffering from any type of housing disrepair you have rights, including the right to seek compensation for housing disrepair and to obtain legal assistance in ensuring these issues are adequately addressed. Versus Law Solicitors have helped 100’s of council tenants claim housing disrepair compensation and get their homes repaired. Contact us if you need our help.

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What is a discretionary trust?


Discretionary trusts are a notable aspect of estate planning in the UK, offering a flexible way for individuals to manage and distribute their assets. Under UK law, a discretionary trust is characterised by the discretion given to trustees in managing the trust’s assets and deciding on the distribution to beneficiaries. The settlor, who creates the trust, does not specify the exact benefits each beneficiary will receive. Instead, the trustees are granted the authority to make these decisions, based on the circumstances and needs of the beneficiaries at any given time. This feature makes discretionary trusts particularly useful in situations where the future needs of beneficiaries are uncertain or likely to change.

One of the primary advantages of discretionary trusts in the UK is their ability to provide for a potentially wide range of beneficiaries without fixing the amount or timing of the benefits each receives. The settlor can define a broad class of beneficiaries, such as family members, and leave it to the trustees’ discretion to provide for them according to their needs. This approach is especially beneficial in catering to the changing needs of younger beneficiaries or those with disabilities. Trustees can allocate funds for education, medical expenses, or other support, adjusting distributions as circumstances evolve. This flexibility ensures that the trust can adapt over time, providing tailored support to beneficiaries throughout their lives.

However, managing a discretionary trust in the UK comes with its challenges and responsibilities. Trustees must act within the terms set out in the trust deed and in the best interests of the beneficiaries. They are legally obliged to consider the needs and circumstances of the potential beneficiaries, making fair and unbiased decisions. The trustees’ role includes managing the trust’s assets, which could encompass a range of investments, and ensuring that these are used effectively to benefit the beneficiaries. This responsibility requires a careful balancing act, weighing the current and future needs of the beneficiaries against the trust’s financial health and long-term sustainability.

Tax considerations are a critical aspect of discretionary trusts under UK law. Trusts are subject to their own tax regime, with implications for income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. For instance, assets placed into a discretionary trust may be subject to inheritance tax, and the trust’s income and gains can be taxed at higher rates. Additionally, discretionary trusts are subject to the ten-year anniversary charge, a periodic charge on the value of the trust assets. It’s essential for trustees to understand these tax rules and manage the trust accordingly. Professional advice is often necessary to navigate the complex landscape of trust taxation and ensure compliance while optimizing the trust’s tax position.

In summary, discretionary trusts under UK law offer a flexible and adaptive tool for estate planning. They provide a way to cater to the changing needs of beneficiaries while allowing for effective management and control of the trust assets. However, the management of such trusts demands a thorough understanding of legal and tax obligations, underscoring the importance of professional guidance in their establishment and administration.

Need help with a discretionary trust? Contact one of our team to get started.

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Samina


Very great service for providing compensation for my missed flight very quick on responses overall had a great and stress-free service. Thank you and will recommend to family and friends

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Paul


Excellent service from start to finish with lots of clarity along the way

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R IFTIKHAR


Hi, I want thank you kishwar and all the staff members for being very professional and great communication about my case.They made my claim very easy and guided me with clear advice. I would recommend family and friends.

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K Rebane


Great service! Got my claim handled in 3 weeks!

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