Ashfords LLP

Our property disputes team recently held an introductory webinar on the Renters' Rights Bill, a new piece of legislation which is due to come into force this year and will bring sweeping changes across the residential rental sector. In the webinar, associate Emma Hindon and solicitor Lucie Carey provide an overview of the legislation and consider whether there are any steps that agents and landlords should be taking now, particularly in relation to serving section 21 notices. Watch the recording here: https://lnkd.in/eAgfNDiK #RentersRightsBill #Renting #Landlords #Tenants

The long-awaited Procurement Act 2023 has finally ‘achieved practical completion’, coming into force on 24 February 2025. The new act promises a fresh approach to public sector construction projects, bringing enhanced transparency, efficiency, and opportunities for the construction industry. Public sector employers, contractors, and the broader supply chain will need to navigate the new procurement processes for projects commencing after this date, while legacy procurements will still follow the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. Our article explores the aspects of the Procurement Act 2023 that are most relevant to the construction sector and their potential impact on construction contracts and appointments. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/d5qA3E-T #ProcurementAct2023 #Construction #ConstructionLaw

An intriguing High Court case which featured an unlikely combination of an enviable mansion, clothes moths, and a claim for fraudulent misrepresentation serves as an important reminder for property sellers to answer pre-contract enquiries with complete honesty, and for buyers to remain vigilant. Our article explores how fraudulent misrepresentation was established and the innovative solution that was reached by the court, and provides key takeaways for both buyers and sellers of properties. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eeTCBpHJ #PropertyDisputes #FraudulentMisrepresentation

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to transform the private rented sector in England, with a significant change being the overhaul of tenants’ rights to serve a notice to quit. The proposed legislation aims to make it easier for tenants to end their tenancies, with all tenancies moving to a periodic model and a streamlined two-month notice period. These changes promise increased flexibility for tenants, but they also bring new challenges for landlords. Our article outlines both the current and the proposed regimes, and examines what these changes mean for both parties. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eSGJedds #RentersRightsBill #Landlords #Renting #NoticeToQuit

The Government’s pledge to get Britain building again has gathered pace in recent months, with ambitious reforms set out in the revised National Planning Policy Framework, as well as proposals to streamline the process of determining planning applications. David Richardson, partner and head of our planning & infrastructure consenting team, delves into the Government's proposed changes in an article for Local Government Lawyer, paying particular attention to the national scheme of delegation. David explores the potential benefits of streamlining the system whilst also weighing up the risks. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/em27dbah #BuildingForGreenerGrowth #Planning #HousingDevelopment #GovernmentReforms

On 3 February 2025, the Financial Conduct Authority issued a new ‘Dear CEO’ letter to firms in its payments portfolio, setting out key regulatory priorities and expectations. The FCA focuses on priorities and risks linked to three central outcomes, including effective competition and innovation, non-compromise of financial system integrity, and keeping customer’s money safe. In our latest article, Oliver Woodhouse breaks down the risks that are highlighted in the letter, as well as the actions required of firms to meet ongoing regulatory requirements. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/esRN3NRz #FCA #FinancialRegulation #PaymentsIndustry #Compliance

We're looking forward to hosting a business breakfast at The Plume of Feathers in Newquay on Thursday 6 March. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a delicious breakfast while connecting with fellow professionals from across the Cornwall business community. Join us from 9am to 11am for great food, coffee, and the chance to build valuable local connections. Find out more and register here: https://lnkd.in/enGz3-5D

On 1 January 2025, the Chief Coroner for England and Wales published a landmark report listing organisations and individuals who failed to respond to Prevention of Future Deaths reports in 2024. Labelled a "badge of dishonour," this is the first time that a Chief Coroner has introduced such public scrutiny, aiming to increase accountability and drive change. Our article breaks down the role of PFD reports within inquests, what recipients must do, and how to avoid being publicly named for a lack of response. We also explore the significant risks of failing to respond, particularly now that this scrutiny will be an annual occurrence. Read the article here: https://lnkd.in/gm2F2Evj #PFDReports #Healthcare #Inquests

As AI becomes more commonplace across all industries, law firms are trying to strike a balance between enhancing the technology's potential with the need to protect client confidentiality and maintain professional standards. Su Apps, partner in our employment team, provides her thoughts on using AI responsibly in The Times' article. Su emphasises the need for trust, judgment, and accountability, which AI alone cannot provide. Find out more and read the article here: https://lnkd.in/eCs4XEBV #AshfordsUnlockingAI #AI #AIinLaw

We’re just a week away from the next instalment in FinTech West’s Future of Payments roundtable series, taking place on Tuesday 25 February at our Bristol office. Payments continues to be one of the most dynamic areas of FinTech, driving innovation, disruption and debate. We’re excited to welcome speakers from: - Ronan Carter, Google - Eliot Heilpern, Parthenon Communications - Ed Boal, Shieldpay - Jack Mangnall, Shape Technologies - Lewis Poe, Caspian One Open Data - Oliver Woodhouse, senior associate at Ashfords Join us to explore the latest trends and challenges shaping the future of payments, with plenty of opportunities for discussion and networking. You don’t need to have attended previous sessions to take part – all are welcome! Find out more and register here: https://lnkd.in/e4v9WYg7 #Payments #FinTech #FinancialServices #FinTechWest