Introduction

With material changes in the legal landscape for the sector unfolding right now, I am delighted to share with you our new biannual Living Sector newsletter – bringing together thought leadership and news from our Real Estate, Real Estate Disputes, and Construction and Engineering teams, with features from our specialist Tax team. In this first edition, we explore the Renters’ Rights Bill as it reaches the final stages of its journey through Parliament. This piece of legislation will significantly impact the Build to Rent and PBSA sectors and the way lettings operate and are managed. We set out some of the potential challenges of the Bill for stakeholders in the Living Sector. As London continues to grow and adapt, we provide insights into the London Plan, the strategic framework guiding development in the city and how it touches on the sector. Permitted Development Rights could be pivotal for streamlining development processes in transforming existing stock, and we discuss their implications for your projects. We also examine the feasibility of current house building targets and their impact on meeting the housing demand across the UK. Safety is paramount, and we look at new measures such as the Building Safety Levy and Gateways, discussing what they mean for construction practices. Navigating VAT complexities in student housing can be challenging, so we offer clarity on the VAT treatment of student accommodation to aid your decision-making. Additionally, understanding the VAT reverse charge mechanism for Build-to-Rent projects is crucial for maintaining cash flow and compliance. Our aim is to provide you with insightful analysis and practical guidance, helping you to make informed decisions. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss any of these topics further, please do not hesitate to reach out.