New industry research suggests half a million people could be living in unsafe buildings With government support limited to one specific type of cladding, these residents could be left with excessive bills to make their homes safe Resident groups form an unprecedented coalition with managing agents and building owners to
The property website www.localsurveyorsdirect.co.uk reports that it has seen a 30 per cent increase in activity in the UK housing market when comparing the months of January and February 2020 with January and February 2019. JJ Heath-Caldwell, managing director of the business, says: “It is quite incredible to see 2020 starting off with
The regeneration of key areas of Warrington is part of a 20-year vision held by Warrington Borough Council but evidence of that vision yielding results are very much visible today. A priority for the Council has always been the provision of affordable housing and over recent years, working with preferred
On the back of ongoing concerns in the sector regarding the Coronavirus, David Cox, ARLA Propertymark Chief Executive raises the concerns of Propertymark to the UK Government in hopes for guidelines. David Cox raised the question of whether the Government will issue guidance for the sector on how to deal
A North Wales developer is celebrating after clinching a share of a £500 million 10-year construction contract with a top social housing provider. Brenig Construction are the approved contractor for all Flintshire-based Wales & West Housing schemes in North Wales worth up to £2.5 million, as part of WWH’s commitment
FirstPort, the residential property management company, will manage the new homes being built at Wichelstowe, one of the most significant new home developments in Swindon’s recent history. The latest phase of Wichelstowe (see picture), named Canalside@Wichelstowe, will feature a mix of 208 apartments and houses from five-star builders David Wilson
Torus is celebrating a double shortlisting at the TPAS Awards this year. The awards celebrate the tireless passion, commitment and impact the work of tenants and housing providers undertake day in, day out to drive lasting change for individuals and communities alike. Torus Tenant Board member and Landlord Operations Committee
Leading energy, services and regeneration specialists, ENGIE, has started work on a £9 million project in East Grinstead. The development, named Lingfield Lodge, will comprise of 48 contemporary extra care sheltered apartments, complete with associated communal facilities and landscaping, and will be carried out in partnership with Eldon Housing Association
Energy, services and regeneration specialist, ENGIE held a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, November 29, to mark the commencement of a £2.5 million construction project in Bellshill. The development, in partnership with the Clyde Valley Housing Association, will see derelict land on Hamilton Road transformed into 24 brand new, energy efficient
Being able to afford a home is a symbol of success and since not everyone has the resources to make the purchase, finally having one on your own is an achievement worth celebrating. Your home is one of the greatest rewards you can give to yourself and your family. When
New industry research suggests half a million people could be living in unsafe buildings With government support limited to one specific type of cladding, these residents could be left with excessive bills to make their homes safe Resident groups form an unprecedented coalition with managing agents and building owners to call on the new Chancellor to establish a fund to make these homes safe Following new evidence that the scale of the cladding crisis may affect up to half a million people, cladding campaigners, residents, property managers and the UK’s largest freeholders have formed an unprecedented coalition to request a multibillion-pound fund to remediate unsafe buildings. In an open letter to the new Chancellor, the group has called on the Government to step in following failures in the building safety regime that have dated back decades. Without support, leaseholders may be left having to pay the price, which is likely to run into the billions. The Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA), which represents the largest property managers in the country, has conducted an analysis of apartment buildings in the UK and found that over half a million people may be living in unsafe buildings that passed building control when they were built. Materials now deemed to be unsafe include High Pressure Laminate (HPL) – which has been found to be at least as flammable as the ACM cladding that was used on Grenfell Tower – but the Government’s existing fund is limited to ACM cladding. The freeholder signatories are coordinating remediation work on buildings with ACM cladding in every major city in the UK, but the process has revealed numerous additional safety issues and there are concerns that the cost of fixing these problems will fall on to residents unless the Government steps in. Given the scale of the task, the group is calling for a multibillion-pound, government-backed fund to be established so that these buildings can be made safe as soon as possible. Nigel Glen, Chief Executive Officer, The Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) said: “The Grenfell tragedy highlighted the dangers of ACM cladding, but it has also revealed a much wider building safety crisis which could affect over half a million people. These buildings are being fixed by building owners and managing agents as quickly as possible but, without Government support, the process could take decades and leave leaseholders with life-changing bills on top of the anxiety that has already been caused.” Martin Boyd, Leasehold Knowledge Partnership said: “Nearly 1,000 days after the Grenfell tragedy there is a huge amount of worry among leaseholders that the problems are getting worse, not better. The government must help find solutions rather than just telling everyone these are complex problems.”
The property website www.localsurveyorsdirect.co.uk reports that it has seen a 30 per cent increase in activity in the UK housing market when comparing the months of January and February 2020 with January and February 2019. JJ Heath-Caldwell, managing director of the business, says: “It is quite incredible to see 2020 starting off with such a high level of activity. During 2019, the market was fairly static, as people held off making decisions until the Brexit situation was resolved and the result of the UK election was announced.” The company, which offers a property services price comparison engine, helps people source local property professionals, connecting home owners and home buyers with surveyors, architects, estate agents, conveyancers, domestic energy assessors, drainage contractors and other property-related professionals. These services are provided over the whole of the United Kingdom by a comprehensive network of suppliers which has been steadily built up since the website first started operating in 2005. JJ says: “Across our sites, we have seen a strong increase in activity, which would coincide with national statistics that property marketing is moving in the upward direction.” Nationwide announced in February 2020 that the average price of a home has increased 2.3% year on year to £216,092, which is the strongest growth rate in 18 months. JJ adds: “It’s great to see the property market gaining momentum after a such a lull. There are some uncertainties in the future with the COVID-19 virus hitting the UK, and we will be monitoring the situation closely.”
The regeneration of key areas of Warrington is part of a 20-year vision held by Warrington Borough Council but evidence of that vision yielding results are very much visible today. A priority for the Council has always been the provision of affordable housing and over recent years, working with preferred development partner, Torus, huge progress has been made. With a portfolio of more than 8,000 homes in Warrington, Torus – the largest provider of social housing in the borough – has a commitment to creating stronger, more sustainable communities through regeneration that supports wider economic growth. Working closely with Warrington Borough Council to identify areas in need of direct investment, the group is currently developing 466 homes in Warrington with a further 130 in the pipeline. This investment will total around £75m. These homes, in areas including Bewsey and Dallam, Padgate, Orford, Burtonwood, Stretton, Appleton and the town centre, will be available for both rent and ownership, through affordable solutions like shared ownership (part buy/part rent) and rent to buy. In Academy Street, close to the newly rejuvenated Times Square, Roebuck Plaza, a development of 144 apartments is quickly taking shape and will offer a choice of one and two bedroomed apartments available through rent to buy. This scheme helps make the transition from renting to buying easier and more affordable by offering a subsidised rent with the option to purchase after 5 years and is an ideal option for first time buyers and downsizers alike. Managing Director of Torus Developments, Chris Bowen said: “As one of our key heartlands, Warrington, its communities and the people who live in them are a priority for us. “Our vision is to grow stronger communities and providing affordable housing plays a huge role but it’s only part of what we do. “Any profit we make from the sale of our homes is reinvested back into our communities where our charity, Torus Foundation helps people maximise their income, find work and improve their chances in life. Not only does this add real value to the work we do, it supports the Council’s wellbeing agenda.” Warrington Borough Council Leader, Cllr Russ Bowden, said: “We know how important it is to provide a diverse mix of housing which meets the needs of all of our residents, from first time buyers and growing families to older residents and vulnerable people. That’s why I’m delighted to see such a range of properties being delivered, offering so much choice – including affordable rent, shared ownership and rent-to-buy. I’m also delighted that every single one of these homes is being built on brownfield sites.” But the focus for Torus isn’t all about young families and first-time buyers. At a time when Council budgets for adult health and social care are under considerable pressure, Torus is partnering with the local authority to offer homes for over 55s that are designed to support active and independent aging in housing where on-site care is available as needs change. Harpers Green a flagship extra care facility in Padgate, developed by Torus, is due to handover in May this year and will offer 97 homes for older people available for affordable rent and shared ownership. Two further schemes for over 55s in Orford and Appleton are also planned. Cabinet Member for Housing, Cllr Maureen McLaughlin said: “These homes are being developed with inclusive communities and health and wellbeing in mind, helping older people continue to live independently, and – through the Torus Foundation Charitable Trust – helping to tackle deprivation by providing help and advice over bills and benefits, upskilling residents and creating new opportunities for people. This supports key aspects of our own health and wellbeing agenda. “Seeing all of these fantastic projects either on site or being brought forward is testament to how effective partnerships can help us deliver great things. It’s about regenerating communities, meeting the needs of our growing town, putting residents’ health and wellbeing first and building a better future for Warrington.”
On the back of ongoing concerns in the sector regarding the Coronavirus, David Cox, ARLA Propertymark Chief Executive raises the concerns of Propertymark to the UK Government in hopes for guidelines. David Cox raised the question of whether the Government will issue guidance for the sector on how to deal with the Coronavirus situation or whether it will at least step in should local authorities start prosecuting landlords when landlords are powerless to act. David used the following example to explain his point: “If a tenant were to have the virus or be in a period of self-isolation, what happens if something goes wrong in the property (for example the boiler stops working). The landlord/ agent /contractor will not go in to avoid contracting the disease and spreading the pandemic. “However, that means there is a tenant with no hot water or heating for two weeks (or longer if the Government extends the period of self-isolation). This puts the landlord / agent in breach of Section 11 Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (duty to maintain property etc.), any selective/ additional /mandatory licensing conditions, Homes Act 2019, Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) under Housing Act 2004 and open them up to unlimited liability and/ or a Banning Order.” David also raised Propertymark’s concerns regarding the consequential impact the virus will have on agents and landlords when getting themselves ready for the electrical regulations which comes into force in July. He flagged that Government may want to consider relaxing the deadlines to give both the industry and supply chain longer to become compliant. Propertymark hopes to receive a response on the issues raised soon and will keep the sector informed on any further progress.
A North Wales developer is celebrating after clinching a share of a £500 million 10-year construction contract with a top social housing provider. Brenig Construction are the approved contractor for all Flintshire-based Wales & West Housing schemes in North Wales worth up to £2.5 million, as part of WWH’s commitment to building 6,000 new affordable homes across Wales in the next decade. The expanding developer, based in Mochdre, near Colwyn Bay, employs 70 staff, 15 per cent of them apprentices and trainees, and has already handed over a £445,000 scheme for three new three-bedroom homes in Ruabon, near Wrexham. They are now well advanced on a £1.28 million project to build 12 one and two-bedroom apartments in Earl Street, Flint, which is due to be completed this summer. The company was launched in 2012 by former youth club pals from Glan Conwy Mark Parry and Howard Vaughan, who are now joint managing directors, and winning a place on the WWH framework is a significant step for them. Mark said: Alison Hammans, Wales & West Housing Development Officer, said: Howard Vaughan added: Brenig Construction has been one of the fastest growing construction companies in Wales over the past three years and their expertise extends to maintenance, social housing, commercial housing and plant hire. Last year they moved into their new headquarters at the business park in Mochdre which they built for another social housing provider, Cartrefi Conwy, and they currently have a full order book with over £40 million in contracts to be delivered over the next three years.
FirstPort, the residential property management company, will manage the new homes being built at Wichelstowe, one of the most significant new home developments in Swindon’s recent history. The latest phase of Wichelstowe (see picture), named Canalside@Wichelstowe, will feature a mix of 208 apartments and houses from five-star builders David Wilson Homes and Barratt. It is anticipated the first residents will be able to move into their new homes in the summer. Wichelstowe is being delivered by a joint venture company which is a 50:50 partnership between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt Developments plc. Over the next 20 years, the Wichelstowe Joint Venture will deliver around 3,000 new homes on a 250-hectare area of land. Wichelstowe, which will have an extensive area of open space featuring playing pitches, allotments and nature conservation, will include three primary schools and a secondary school. Daniel Pavely, Project Director for Wichelstowe, said: “It is important to us that our chosen management company has a strong customer focus and drive to help us to promote and develop a thriving community at Wichelstowe. We have found FirstPort to be professional and knowledgeable – they have taken the time to understand our requirements and are playing an active role in delivering the management services. We are looking forward to working with the FirstPort team.” FirstPort has also been appointed by St George City to manage 320 apartments, commercial units and landscaped courtyard gardens at Royal Exchange, Kingston. This luxury development that epitomises modem living. The site, planned for 2021, is a former Grade II listed telephone exchange which, alongside a Post Office building, will be refurbished for residential use. Ann-Charlotte Binnberg, Head of Business Development, FirstPort said: “It’s great that we can add value right at the start of new build projects, before they are even occupied. Clients are seeking out our strategic and design support early on things like service delivery, service-charge modelling and community initiatives to make sure their developments are good value for customers and great places to live.”
Torus is celebrating a double shortlisting at the TPAS Awards this year. The awards celebrate the tireless passion, commitment and impact the work of tenants and housing providers undertake day in, day out to drive lasting change for individuals and communities alike. Torus Tenant Board member and Landlord Operations Committee member, Ray Jones was nominated by the Group for the Lifetime Achievement Award. Ray has been an active tenant since 2008 first with Liverpool Mutual Homes and latterly with Torus. Over the past 11 years, Ray has been a passionate advocate of tenant representation and decision-making. His sphere of influence has been far-reaching and embraces committees for assets, audit and risk, remuneration and financing. With a focus on the provision of high-quality, mixed tenure homes and investment in existing homes, Ray’s input has helped shape the delivery of Liverpool’s Marwood Towers and Torus’ award-winning development, Ogden’s Place, in Everton. For the past year, as a member of Torus Landlord Operations Committee, Ray has been the voice for nearly 40,000 tenants. However, Ray took his voice and those of all tenants to a national stage when he was successfully appointed to the National Housing Federation’s ‘Tenant Advisory Panel’. This critical role sees him helping to develop the design and policy for social housing associations and boards nationwide. Commenting on his nomination, Ray said: “I’m honoured and privileged to have been nominated; I enjoy excellent social housing accommodation and facilities. “I have become passionate in trying to make sure all social housing tenants of whatever age, can also enjoy clean, safe, affordable housing, which in turn, helps maintain health and wellbeing. Building up a transparent relationship between tenant and provider is the key to a successful partnership, both parties benefit accordingly.” Torus’ second nomination, Torus Talk, an innovative online tenant engagement and consultation platform has also been shortlisted for the Excellence in Tenant Communication Award. Designed and developed in consultation with tenants, the Customer Involvement Team and the Communications Team, Torus Talk harnesses the power of Facebook to give 38,695 tenants the opportunity to have their say without physically having to attend consultation sessions. By removing barriers to participation, Torus Talk has enhanced tenant involvement, scrutiny and empowerment. Torus Regional director, Jan Calland, said: “Torus celebrated its one-year anniversary in January and we worked hard to embed tenant involvement from the outset. Much of this is thanks to the combined vision of our board, leadership team and Landlord Operations Committee. “However, teams across the business and tenants alike have embraced tenant participation as a way to work together, make positive changes and keep improving. The fact that we’ve been shortlisted really recognises the value of the work that’s been done.” The TPAS Awards take place on March 27th in Manchester.
Leading energy, services and regeneration specialists, ENGIE, has started work on a £9 million project in East Grinstead. The development, named Lingfield Lodge, will comprise of 48 contemporary extra care sheltered apartments, complete with associated communal facilities and landscaping, and will be carried out in partnership with Eldon Housing Association in addition to local charitable providers. Work is set to be completed in January 2021, with the scheme aiming to provide a better standard of affordable housing and facilities for residents and the community, with ENGIE working in partnership with Mid Sussex District Council and West Sussex County Council through Eldon Housing Association. The site, located in East Grinstead, saw the demolition of the existing apartments to make way for the new modern facilities. Simon Lacey, Regional Managing Director at ENGIE, commented: “It’s great to be involved in a project that will make a real difference to residents’ living standards with brand new apartments and the development of communal areas. “The project will see us make the most efficient use of the land, without disrupting existing amenities in the surrounding area. It’s an exciting project, and we’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact providing 100% affordable homes will have on the local area.” Working in conjunction with FUSE Architects, ENGIE plans to build a variety of high quality properties, ranging from 1 – 2 bedroom appartments. For further information on ENGIE, visit www.engie.co.uk/places
Energy, services and regeneration specialist, ENGIE held a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, November 29, to mark the commencement of a £2.5 million construction project in Bellshill. The development, in partnership with the Clyde Valley Housing Association, will see derelict land on Hamilton Road transformed into 24 brand new, energy efficient affordable homes; eight one-bedroom cottages and 16 two-bedroom cottage flats across six blocks. The aim of the project is to help regenerate the area, enhancing its visual appeal, in addition to bringing life to brownfield land. The infrastructure works will ensure the new homes will be energy efficient and affordable – placing local residents and businesses at the heart of the project. Regional Managing Director of ENGIE’s Places & Communities division, Brian Pettigrew, commented, “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the new project in Bellshill, we’re excited to kick-start the scheme, especially as the town plays host to ENGIE’s regional offices. “We strongly believe that by using a local workforce, we can engage the local community and offer employment and training opportunities, in addition to working with our local partners to identify groups that would benefit from ENGIE’s support. “We’re keen to be working in partnership with Clyde Valley Housing Association, and to have the opportunity to transform the disused space into energy-efficient homes which will benefit the local community.” Allan Murray, chairperson of CVHA said, “We are pleased to be delivering these 24 properties in partnership with ENGIE. There is strong demand for properties across North Lanarkshire and in particular within Bellshill and this development will go some way in meeting local need.” Work on the 24 new homes on Hamilton Road is expected to be completed in April 2020.
Being able to afford a home is a symbol of success and since not everyone has the resources to make the purchase, finally having one on your own is an achievement worth celebrating. Your home is one of the greatest rewards you can give to yourself and your family. When you have your own home, you can guarantee your family’s comfort and safety. Although an important investment, there will come a time when selling your home is a better option than continually keeping it. Regardless of the financial investment you’ve put into buying your home, choosing to sell it can actually provide more benefits. To drive the point home, listed below are the advantages you can enjoy once you decide to sell your home: 1. Professional Services Having a strong background on what homebuyers want and how the competitors are hauling in buyers are essential to selling your home fast. However, you don’t have to exert too much time and effort in learning all of these things as there are professional services that can help you sell your home, such as: We-buy-houses companies: Companies such as Nexus Homebuyers buy your home for cash as-is. When you choose to work with a we-buy-houses company such as www.cashfortxhousesnow.com, you won’t have to pay for any renovations or repairs before you can earn a profit for your home. Real estate agents: These professionals will take over all of the responsibilities when selling your home. They will accurately price your home, organize a successful open house, make your home attractive in the local real estate industry, and negotiate with potential homebuyers. Home inspectors: Home inspectors will assess the overall condition of your home and identify its value. Hiring home inspectors will make it easy for you to properly price your home. When you choose to sell your home, you can maximize the professional services offered by these businesses and individuals. Their presence in the local real estate industry will allow you to sell your home in the easiest way possible while earning a profit. 2. Earn Money The home selling process is demanding, but homeowners like you are willing to go through this process because of one reason—to get cash. Selling your home is usually an option when you’re in a situation that requires immediate cash. Although your home is an important investment, emergencies can happen in life that can require you to shift your focus and change your priorities. For example, if you or your family members are involved in a vehicular accident and money is required to pay for the hospitalization bills and therapies, selling your home can be your first course of action. This is especially true if you don’t have any savings or if your savings aren’t enough to pay for all such costs. Aside from accidents, selling your home is the easiest option to get cash if you are experiencing debt or bankruptcy, divorce, or death of a family member. 3. Meet Family Demands Life is unpredictable as a lot of things can change over the years. You might be living alone in your home today, but after a few years, you’ll be moving to another home with your spouse or decide to stay in your current home to support a growing family. Selling your home allows you to meet the ever-changing demands of your family. For example, the home you currently live in might be enough for you and for your spouse, but your needs can change as your family starts to grow. When you sell your home, you can dispose of a property that is no longer sufficient for your family’s needs and lifestyles, and earn enough money to buy a new home perfect for your new family. By selling your home, you can choose to upgrade or downgrade to provide better comfort and safety for the entire family. Living in a home that’s just right for your family can also help you save money from paying for expensive household bills and unnecessary home renovations. 4. Seize Opportunities The financial investment you’ve put into buying a home is one of the reasons why you’re hesitant to seize opportunities. Because the home you purchased is too expensive, you have no choice but to stay in your current location in order to maximize your investment. Things will be different once you choose to sell your home. Since you can still earn money from your investment, leaving your home and flying to another country to seize more opportunities won’t seem like a very tough decision. Although you’re no longer living in your home, you still earn money, so your investment won’t feel like a complete waste of money. Carefully Consider Options If you’re convinced that selling your home is indeed beneficial, start deciding how you’re going to sell it. You can choose to work with businesses or professionals who can make the home selling process easier or shorter for you or opt to sell your home on your own. Have the time to carefully compare all of your options and weigh their pros and cons. You should be able to sell your home in the most convenient way possible while allowing you to earn the highest return on investment.
