Legal Archives | BDC Magazine https://bdcmagazine.com/category/business/legal/ The Choice of Industry Professionals Thu, 03 Aug 2023 08:47:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.1 https://bdcmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/cropped-BDC_Favicon-32x32.png Legal Archives | BDC Magazine https://bdcmagazine.com/category/business/legal/ 32 32 Proposed Tenancy reforms a Headache for Landlords says BTTJ https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/08/proposed-tenancy-reforms-a-headache-for-landlords-says-bttj/ Thu, 03 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=150332 Millions of UK landlords will be adversely affected by proposed reforms designed to protect tenants against eviction from rental properties, a leading solicitor warns. The Renters Reform Bill will abolish the Section 21 notice which allows a landlord to evict tenants at the end of a fixed term without good reason. The changes to the […]

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Millions of UK landlords will be adversely affected by proposed reforms designed to protect tenants against eviction from rental properties, a leading solicitor warns.

The Renters Reform Bill will abolish the Section 21 notice which allows a landlord to evict tenants at the end of a fixed term without good reason.

The changes to the law – designed to protect the UK’s 11 million tenants and provide them with safer, fairer and higher quality homes – will bring in greater restrictions on landlords whose reasons for wanting to evict their tenants do not meet a certain criteria.

The Bill is currently going through Parliament and is expected to become law next year.

Kristy Ainge is Solicitor-Advocate in the Litigation Team at Coventry and Warwickshire based Brindley Twist Tafft & James (BTTJ).

She said the new laws were designed to crack down on no-fault evictions.

“The main change is that a landlord cannot ask a tenant to leave if, for example, they want to move a friend into their property, or if for any reason they just don’t like them,” Kristy said.

“The only way they can evict their tenants who are “not at fault”, is if they want to live there themselves, or move an immediate family member in, or if they want to sell the property. Even then, it will not be a quick process, because, if a landlord wishes to move into the property themselves, they cannot serve notice within the first 6 months of the tenancy.

The changes will also allow tenancies to roll month by month meaning landlords who previously were entitled to six or 12 months’ tenancies will now be periodic and determined by the frequency that rent is paid. This gives tenants much more flexibility and removes the security for landlords knowing they have a tenant in situ for 6/12 months.

The reforms will give more rights to tenants who want to keep pets too. Under current legislation a blanket ban on all pets is allowed. Most landlords take advantage of the ban for fear of potential damage caused by the animals to the property.

Under new proposals, still to be discussed, a tenant has the right to request to keep a pet and the landlord will have no right to refuse the request without good reason. However, they may ask their tenant to cover pet insurance and home insurance to cover any damage.

Tenants who fall behind with the rent or who are causing anti-social behaviour are not protected by the laws and may still be evicted by their landlord in the usual way under the section 8 notice regime.

Kristy said: “The new reforms will give tenants more protection but restricts what landlords can do with their own properties.

“There are expected to be some exceptions such as private student lets, though this is yet to be confirmed.”

For further advice contact BTTJ at https://www.bttj.com/contact-us/

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Irwin Mitchell Boosts Real Estate Disputes Team with new Partner Appointment in London https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/07/irwin-mitchell-boosts-real-estate-disputes-team-with-new-partner-appointment-in-london/ Mon, 17 Jul 2023 08:00:28 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=149677 National law firm’s property division now has 29 partners and over 150 qualified lawyers National law firm Irwin Mitchell is expanding its Real Estate Disputes Team with the recruitment of a new partner, William Scott, who will be based in the firm’s London office. The appointment takes the specialist disputes team to 25, including four […]

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National law firm’s property division now has 29 partners and over 150 qualified lawyers

National law firm Irwin Mitchell is expanding its Real Estate Disputes Team with the recruitment of a new partner, William Scott, who will be based in the firm’s London office.

The appointment takes the specialist disputes team to 25, including four partners and four senior associates, based in offices across the UK.  The team is jointly led by partners Danny Revitt and Tim Rayner and sits within Irwin Mitchell’s Property Division which will now number 29 partners and over 150 qualified lawyers.

Will will be working with London Head of Real Estate Disputes, partner Paul Henson in a team of seven specialist real estate disputes lawyers in London.

He joins Irwin Mitchell from Bates Wells where he was Head of Real Estate Disputes since April 2019, having joined the firm as a solicitor in 2008.

Will has extensive experience of working for both landlords and tenants advising on all aspects of disputes relating to commercial landlord and tenant relationships. He has particular expertise in acting for corporate occupiers, charities, retailers, unions, educational establishments and individuals. Day to day work includes advising on service charge disputes, dilapidations claims, all aspects of exits from property, lease renewals, forfeitures and possession claims. He has also built up a reputation amongst clients and led on ESG property related matters, business rates, telecoms issues and the Real Estate aspects of the impact economy.

He is a member of the Property Litigation Association.

Danny Revitt, Joint Head of Real Estate Disputes at Irwin Mitchell said, “Will’s arrival will be a real boost to our national Real Estate Disputes practice, particularly in London, where we are already highly regarded but are keen to develop and grow the team further. His expertise in ESG, business rates and telecoms will further strengthen our offer as these are key issues our clients are concerned about and wish us to help address.”

Tim Rayner, Joint Head of Real Estate Disputes at Irwin Mitchell added, “Our national Real Estates Disputes Team has more than doubled in size in the last five years, reflecting the challenges investors, developers and occupiers face in the modern real estate industry. We have a strong and sizeable practice already but look forward to working with Will to further strengthen our offer to clients. We wish him a warm welcome.”

Irwin Mitchell has continued to invest heavily in its team focused on the corporate, property and institutions audience.

Earlier this year it announced the arrival of construction partner Robert Tunningley, banking partner Jeremy Ladyman,  two corporate/property tax partners, Kate Featherstone and Jennie Newton and most recently corporate partner Geraint Lloyd.

The firm is committed to the ESG agenda and has developed its own service for clients.

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CITB helps crack down on rogue traders, Asbestos Boss Ltd https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/03/citb-helps-crack-down-on-rogue-traders-asbestos-boss-ltd/ Wed, 22 Mar 2023 06:46:00 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=138668 Following an investigation carried out by Stockport Trading Standards and the HSE, UK Manager for Asbestos Boss Ltd, Daniel Cockcroft, has been brought to justice with the help of the CITB Quality & Standards Team. Stockport Trading Standards and the HSE were first alerted to the rogue traders back in September 2021, when the company […]

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Following an investigation carried out by Stockport Trading Standards and the HSE, UK Manager for Asbestos Boss Ltd, Daniel Cockcroft, has been brought to justice with the help of the CITB Quality & Standards Team.

Stockport Trading Standards and the HSE were first alerted to the rogue traders back in September 2021, when the company removed the asbestos insulating board from a domestic garage, with little to no control measures in place. The investigation later revealed several similar cases, with one case deemed such poor quality that the site owners received quotes up to £64,000 to put it right.

As part of the investigation, Stockport Trading Standards contacted CITB in December 2021 to run checks against documentation Mr Cockcroft produced, claiming to hold a CITB Site Safety Plus qualification. Ian Sidney, CITB’s Fraud Manager, investigated and confirmed that Mr Cockcroft did not hold any form of CSCS card or Site Safety Plus qualification. Asbestos Boss Ltd were not only producing counterfeit documents but also using an unauthorised CITB logo on their website to reel customers into thinking they had achieved accreditation.

In Manchester Magistrates Court, Judge Begley remarked that the nature and gravity of Mr Cockcroft’s offending was plain to see and that he was central to the offences. He then stated that he considered Mr Cockcroft’s actions to be “rogue trading at its worst.” He made it clear that he considered the implications for serious health issues in the future from exposures caused by Mr Cockcroft to be an aggravating feature in the case.

CITB provided a witness statement to the case, producing evidence of the findings and details of the trademarks held by CITB. Following this, Stockport Trading Standards brought a charge of fraud by false representation contrary to section 1(2)(a) of the Fraud Act 2006 against the company and directors in relation to the falsifying of documents with the intent to deceive, as well as unauthorised use of trade and accreditation logos, designed to give an impression of competence.  

Judge Begley said that the quality and weight of evidence against Asbestos Boss Ltd was overwhelming, and he found them guilty of all charges. Mr Cockcroft was sentenced to six months imprisonment for the HSE charges and a further four months for the Trading Standards offence relating to fraud and deception.

Chris Simpson, CITB Head of Quality and Standards, said: “Falsifying health and safety qualifications means that the holder has not demonstrated the professional competence and awareness of health and safety legislation that is required for them to work safely in the construction industry. We are committed to identifying and stamping out any kind of cheating or deception to ensure that members of the public are kept safe, with an industry that they can rely on.

“CITB welcomes the sentencing which sends a clear message to individuals and companies flouting health and safety regulations that we will not in any way tolerate this, and that we will work with local authorities, Trading Standards and the HSE to counter rogue traders.”

Anyone who has information can report their concerns confidentially to Trading Standards, HSE or CITB via report.it@citb.co.uk.

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New regulator takes major step forward https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/02/new-regulator-takes-major-step-forward/ Tue, 28 Feb 2023 05:07:00 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=138312 Those responsible for the safety of high-rise residential buildings in England have six months from April to register with the new Building Safety Regulator. The Building Safety Regulator was established to protect high-rise residents from unsafe building practices in England in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. Under the Building Safety Act, high-rise residential buildings […]

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Those responsible for the safety of high-rise residential buildings in England have six months from April to register with the new Building Safety Regulator. The Building Safety Regulator was established to protect high-rise residents from unsafe building practices in England in response to the Grenfell Tower fire.

Under the Building Safety Act, high-rise residential buildings which are 18 metres tall or higher, or at least seven storeys, with two or more residential units are defined as ‘higher-risk’. Across England there are approximately 12,500 of these buildings and the new regulator will require all of them to be registered from April 2023, with a named person responsible for maintaining their safety.

“This registration process is an important step towards building a safer future for residents of high-rise buildings. We want it to be clear where responsibility for safety in these buildings lies. As the Building Safety Regulator, we will draw from our experience to provide guidance and oversight for the industry and lay the foundation for a world-leading building safety regime, which is a part of our mission to protect people and places,” said HSE Chief Executive Sarah Albon.

A new campaign aimed at owners and managers of high-rise residential buildings will highlight their new legal duties. It will call on those responsible for the safety management of higher-risk buildings to prepare for a new wave of regulatory change to ensure that they are ready to step up and comply.

The registration process is a crucial stage in setting up the new building safety regime. Registering buildings in scope will be a legal requirement and owners and managers who fail to comply by October 2023 will be investigated and may face prosecution.

“Our message is clear – industry must raise its standards and residents of high-rise buildings in England must be kept safe. This is a landmark moment for building safety, the information provided through registration will be an invaluable part of our crackdown on unsafe building practices. Those who are responsible for high-rise residential buildings must register; failure to do so will be against the law,” added Chief Inspector of Buildings Peter Baker.

Building registration is a major step in a package of measures to ensure high-rise residential buildings are safe for residents and users. It follows the introduction of Planning Gateway One in August 2021 and will be followed by more robust building control of high-rise developments, and the certification of occupied high-rise buildings by the new Regulator.

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Supreme Court Backs Residents Against Tate Modern in Landmark Ruling Today- Comment from Irwin Mitchell https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/02/supreme-court-backs-residents-against-tate-modern-in-landmark-ruling-today-comment-from-irwin-mitchell/ Thu, 02 Feb 2023 07:57:10 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=136985 Supreme Court Decision Today: Fearn & Others v Trustees of Tate Gallery Ends Six-Year Battle With Wide-Ranging Implication For Developers and the Laws on Visual Nuisance In a milestone decision today the Supreme Court has allowed the appeal and found in favour of the flat owners overlooked by the Tate Modern’s public viewing gallery, putting […]

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Supreme Court Decision Today: Fearn & Others v Trustees of Tate Gallery Ends Six-Year Battle With Wide-Ranging Implication For Developers and the Laws on Visual Nuisance

In a milestone decision today the Supreme Court has allowed the appeal and found in favour of the flat owners overlooked by the Tate Modern’s public viewing gallery, putting an end to this long running case..

The claim concerns the Tate’s public viewing gallery on the top floor of the Blavatnik Building.  The viewing gallery attracts between 500,000 – 600,000 visitors per year and can hold up to 300 people at once.  The distance between the viewing gallery and the flats is some 34 metres and the flats have floor to ceiling glass windows. The viewing gallery is open all day, 7 days a week and provides a clear and uninterrupted view of the flats.  The owners of the flats complained of being constantly viewed by visitors to the museum, of people taking photographs and videos on their smartphones and uploading them to social media.  The flat owners seek an injunction to prevent the Tate from permitting people to view their flats from the viewing gallery.

The claim was dismissed at first instance on the basis that the Tate’s use of the land was reasonable, the flats (with floor to ceiling glass windows) were exceptionally sensitive and the owners could install blinds or curtains if they chose.  The claim was appealed but dismissed at the Court of Appeal where it was held that “mere overlooking” could not constitute a nuisance.

In a majority decision today  the Supreme Court allowed the appeal and found in favour of the flat owners.   The essence of the decision is that the law of nuisance seeks to prevent substantial interference with the ordinary enjoyment of land.  The ordinary use of land, done conveniently and with due regard for your neighbours, cannot constitute a nuisance.  However, the Court found that the near constant visual intrusion went well beyond “overlooking” and would be regarded by ordinary homeowners as substantially interfering with their use and enjoyment of their property.  The viewing gallery was a particular and exceptional use of the Tate’s land and not an ordinary incident of the use of the land as an art museum.   As a result, the use of the viewing gallery in this way constituted a nuisance.

Thomas Freeman Senior Associate Solicitor in the Real Estate Disputes Team at Irwin Mitchell said, “ In the short term, the case is likely to be misunderstood as having been decided on the grounds of “privacy”. There are likely to be many people concerned about the use of neighbouring land or its proposed development who will seek to rely on it.  However, the case was concerned the law of nuisance and not privacy.  The Judgment is clear that the ordinary use of land, including for ordinary instances of overlooking or development, will not constitute a nuisance.”

“The case is important because the Supreme Court has re-stated the law of nuisance.  In doing so, it has rejected the notion that there is a “reasonable user” test, or that the “reasonable use” of land in all the circumstances will provide a defence to claim in nuisance.  Rather, the questions of whether the interference is substantial, and whether it emanates from an ordinary use of the land or not, are of paramount importance.

In the longer term, it is the question of “ordinary use” which is likely to generate satellite litigation.  It is difficult to assess ordinary use by reference to locality in highly developed mixed areas, or where new uses are to be introduced to an area or are developed incrementally over time.”

“Finally, the Supreme Court avoided the question of whether the owners should be awarded damages or an injunction.  This is a missed opportunity for the Court to provide guidance in an area which, as the Court itself acknowledged, has been uncertain since the issue was last examined by the Supreme Court in Coventry v Lawrence.”

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What To Look For In A Personal Injury Lawyer In Burlington https://bdcmagazine.com/2023/01/what-to-look-for-in-a-personal-injury-lawyer-in-burlington/ Tue, 10 Jan 2023 03:49:00 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=136172 When you’ve been injured in an accident, the last thing you’d be able to do is to start researching for personal injury lawyers. However, if you’re considering hiring one, choosing someone with extensive experience and legal expertise is essential. Here are some crucial things to look for when choosing a personal injury lawyer in Burlington:  […]

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When you’ve been injured in an accident, the last thing you’d be able to do is to start researching for personal injury lawyers. However, if you’re considering hiring one, choosing someone with extensive experience and legal expertise is essential. Here are some crucial things to look for when choosing a personal injury lawyer in Burlington: 

  1. Experience And Track Record

Experience and track record are essential components you must consider when searching for a personal injury lawyer in Burlington. A lawyer with the right qualifications and background can provide the necessary expertise to win your case and get the best possible settlement. The more experienced lawyers likely have worked on hundreds of cases similar to yours, giving them familiarity with local courts and knowledge of how insurance companies work. They may even be able to advise you on strategies before you even formally file a lawsuit. 

In addition, your chances of victory in court or negotiations are enhanced by hiring an attorney with a decent win percentage. Research each potential lawyer’s background to ensure they have the necessary expertise and track record of success in similar cases. With this information in hand, you can rest assured that you’re working with professionals who have successfully resolved many other similar cases as yours.

  1. Consider The Fees Charged

When scouting for a personal injury lawyer in Burlington, the cost is always an essential factor to think about. Finding an attorney who is both well-qualified and within your budget can be difficult, but it’s worth the effort. It’s important not to choose the lowest-priced option, as some attorneys are cheaper because they may lack experience or provide a subpar level of service.

On the other hand, high fees don’t necessarily guarantee success either. Doing thorough research and checking out lawyer’s reviews can save you time and money in the long run. Ultimately, finding the right personal injury attorney should involve careful consideration of both cost and quality of service to ensure you have the best chance of fighting for justice after an accident. 

  1. References And Reviews 

It is critical to do one’s research before hiring a personal injury attorney in Burlington. Taking the time to look into references and reviews is a great start. References offer an experience-based account of how well a lawyer works with clients, while reviews provide helpful insights into their case outcomes, customer service, and cost efficiency. Knowing what others have experienced is incredibly valuable when deciding which attorney can best represent your interests and win your case. Don’t just take someone’s word for it – take the time to research and make sure you choose the right lawyer.

  1. Location

It’s essential to consider location when looking for the best lawyer in Burlington because distance can impact the overall convenience of services. And since you’ll be required to attend meetings and check-ins with your lawyer regularly, it’s essential to find one close enough so that traveling won’t be disruptive or would require extra time and money.

Additionally, lawyers who are local to the area often have more experience with local laws and tend to be better informed when it comes to getting the best outcome regarding insurance payouts. Thus, it’s worth researching lawyers within Burlington before considering those outside the city limits.

  1. Availability

When looking for a lawyer, availability is crucial. After all, you need an attorney who can give your case the attention it deserves; this is their area of expertise, and the more dedicated they can be, the better! Furthermore, the lawyer must be readily available if there are changes regarding your case, meetings that need to be arranged on short notice, or if something urgent needs to happen. 

Undertaking such a serious case requires commitment, and if you feel you’re being neglected or strung along, you’re not getting the representation you deserve. You don’t have to go for less than exemplary service; instead, prioritize the lawyer’s availability if you want to reap the benefits of hiring one for your situation. 

  1. Certification

Lastly, when looking for a personal injury lawyer, it’s vital to consider whether or not they’re board-certified in their field. Consider only hiring attorneys certified by the National Trial Lawyers or the American Board of Trial Advocates. These certifications are awarded to lawyers who have met stringent standards regarding experience and knowledge in their area of expertise; they are subjective, but they still carry weight regarding credibility and effectiveness. 

Final Words

Finding the right personal injury lawyer can be challenging, but it’s worth the effort. Doing thorough research and checking out lawyer’s reviews can save you time and money in the long run. Ultimately, finding the right personal injury attorney should involve careful consideration of both cost and quality of service to ensure you have the best chance of fighting for justice after an accident. By following the tips above and conducting thorough research, you can be confident that you have made the best choice. Good luck!

What To Look For In A Personal Injury Lawyer In Burlington

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Excello advises Caldeira on acquisition of new HQ https://bdcmagazine.com/2022/12/excello-advises-caldeira-on-acquisition-of-new-hq/ Thu, 15 Dec 2022 05:05:00 +0000 https://bdcmagazine.com/?p=135696 Peter McHugh, a Liverpool-based real estate partner at national firm Excello Law, has advised Caldeira, the UK’s leading cushion company, on the acquisition of a new headquarters on the Knowsley Industrial Park in Merseyside in a £3 million investment project. “Caldeira’s acquisition and redevelopment of their new HQ will bring additional investment and job opportunities […]

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Peter McHugh, a Liverpool-based real estate partner at national firm Excello Law, has advised Caldeira, the UK’s leading cushion company, on the acquisition of a new headquarters on the Knowsley Industrial Park in Merseyside in a £3 million investment project.

“Caldeira’s acquisition and redevelopment of their new HQ will bring additional investment and job opportunities into Knowsley. It’s also testament to a strong partnership and funding approach across the City which ensures successful local companies are able to grow their businesses in the heart of Merseyside,” said Peter.

The 85,000 sq. ft. factory on a three-acre site, at 29 Lees Road, will contain manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, office and showroom facilities. The surplus space at the site, not yet required by Caldeira, is being developed and will be rented to other companies.

“We’ve been working with Peter over the last year on our property needs and we find in him, and Excello Law, a very knowledgeable and responsive real estate team. Peter’s advice was key to ensuring a property that meets all our needs for future expansion of the business,” added Tony Caldeira, Founder and Managing Director of Caldeira,

The significant renovation of the site has involved a full refurbishment of the property. In addition, there have been adaptations to the factory, warehouse, offices and showroom space to enable the company to increase production to over a million cushions per year. As part of the project, the company is investing in solar energy making Caldeira carbon negative in 2023.

Caldeira’s purchase of the building has been supported by HSBC Bank in Liverpool, while the building renovation has been assisted by the Liverpool City Region Flexible Growth Fund via MSIF, and the Liverpool City Region Capital Grant Fund, which is delivered by St.Helens Chamber of Commerce.

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New built environment legislation will prevent ‘race to the bottom’, says TICA https://bdcmagazine.com/2022/10/new-built-environment-legislation-will-prevent-race-to-the-bottom-says-tica/ Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:30:00 +0000 https://www.bdcmagazine.com/?p=121455 The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) says new legislation will enforce installer and construction competence and put an end to the current “race to the bottom” that cuts both costs and safety. Marion Marsland, Chief Executive of the trade association, has hailed the Building Safety Act, the largest piece of built environment legislation in more […]

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The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) says new legislation will enforce installer and construction competence and put an end to the current “race to the bottom” that cuts both costs and safety.

Marion Marsland, Chief Executive of the trade association, has hailed the Building Safety Act, the largest piece of built environment legislation in more than 50 years, as tremendously important in upholding standards and increasing collaboration within the supply chain.

The Act also paves the way for secondary legislation that places competence at the heart of the industry and will put an end to thermal insulation specialists being pushed out of projects by contractors without a Construction Related Occupation CSCS card or those prepared to use non-compliant materials.

It will ensure sub-contractors operating in the sector will be recognised as specialists, with the ability to evidence their specific knowledge, skills, and experience – which in turn will drive up standards.

Currently there are a minimum set of requirements, such as BS 5422 and BS 5970, which provide recommendations on thermal insulation materials for pipes, tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment operating within specified temperature ranges.

However, while a consultant will specify insulation thickness, such standards are referenced down the line in sub-contractor technical submittals – despite the fact understanding is often lacking throughout the value chain.

Marion Marsland said: “Many people currently referencing the standards don’t have the experience or knowledge to ensure specified standards are being met by the installer – a situation that benefits those contractors who either ignore or flout relevant standards.

“For too long, the relationship between the thermal insulation industry and the wider building services industry has been transactional, with clients essentially asking contractors ‘how cheap can you lag the pipework on our project?’.

“This process, repeated time and time again, represents a race to the bottom, where competent thermal insulation specialists end up being pushed out of projects by contractors employing uncarded labour or substituting the specified product with non-compliant materials.

“Sadly, specialist contractors are not the only losers as the standards also matter to the owners and occupiers of badly insulated buildings, particularly when it comes to excess energy bills and overheating issues.”

“Thankfully, these practices will not stand against the wave of change heading towards the built environment sector in the form of the Building Safety Act and resulting secondary legislation.”

Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Policy Manager, added: “At TICA we are working with our members to ensure they are well placed to adapt to the changes ahead. We are also working with key stakeholders in the building services industry to ensure our approach to competence frameworks aligns with and supports the wider drive towards improved competence in the built environment sector.

“The vast majority of TICA members are SME businesses, and we recognise that accessing relevant standards could be problematic. We have therefore partnered with the BSI to develop a portal for full members to access thermal insulation related standards. In addition, we will be rolling out regular CPD that will provide greater levels of product and policy related knowledge and ensure they remain the standard bearers of the thermal insulation industry.”

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Revealed: Tool theft hotspots in the UK https://bdcmagazine.com/2022/09/revealed-tool-theft-hotspots-in-the-uk/ Wed, 21 Sep 2022 08:09:34 +0000 https://www.bdcmagazine.com/?p=120623 New study reveals Cambridge as the worst area for tool thefts in the UK South, West and North Yorkshire also appear in the top ten Experts reveal why you should review business assets and sell unused equipment The rising cost of living and trading has put businesses under immense pressure. Whilst stolen tools could seem […]

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New study reveals Cambridge as the worst area for tool thefts in the UK

South, West and North Yorkshire also appear in the top ten

Experts reveal why you should review business assets and sell unused equipment

The rising cost of living and trading has put businesses under immense pressure. Whilst stolen tools could seem a minor inconvenience, losing tools and large-scale equipment could be disastrous for a business already suffering in the current economic climate.

Commercial tool thefts are a growing concern for businesses across the country, with search interest for ‘tools stolen’ increasing by 117%¹ from January 2020 to July this year.

Whilst tool thefts can happen anywhere in the country, online auction specialist BPI Auctions has used Freedom of Information data² from local councils across the UK to identify which areas suffered the most commercial tool thefts since January 2020.

Analysing the data, the top ten areas for tool thefts are:

  1. Cambridgeshire (9,433)
  2. South Yorkshire (6,123)
  3. Lancashire (5,818)
  4. Essex (4,196)
  5. Hertfordshire (3,675)
  6. West Yorkshire (3,097)
  7. North Yorkshire (2,229)
  8. Humberside (1,129)
  9. Northamptonshire (1,013)
  10. Bedfordshire (858)

Cambridgeshire took the top spot with 9,433 total thefts, a significant lead ahead of South Yorkshire in second place with 6,123 thefts. Yorkshire appeared in the top ten twice more, with West Yorkshire in 6th place (3,097) and North Yorkshire in 7th (2,229). Whilst Northern regions were prominent in the top ten, Southern areas also made the list, with Essex coming 4th (4,196) and Hertfordshire being 5th (3,675).

Looking further into the data, in Cambridgeshire, the number of ‘thefts from a motor vehicle’ (6,581) was over twice as common as a ‘burglary from a business’ (2,837). This is a regular occurrence in tool thefts. Whilst business owners will often invest in security for premises and buildings, vehicles are often forgotten and become a perfect target for thieves.

Whilst you can’t guarantee the protection of your vehicle from tool thefts, making small changes like storing tools inside or investing in a sticker that states ‘no tools are left in the vehicle overnight’ can deter prospective thieves.

Despite having the most thefts overall, Cambridgeshire’s stolen value totalled £4,816,806, whilst South Yorkshire was valued at over double with £9,289,954 of stolen goods between January 2020 and July 2022. 

The data shows that smaller handheld tools such as drills and saws were much more at risk than larger, expensive items like fort lift trucks or platform lifts. These items are more convenient for thieves as they are smaller and likely have no serial numbers that owners or police could identify them with.

Speaking on the data, Henry Spencer, Chief Operating Officer at BPI Auctions, summarises: “As a Yorkshire-based business, it is shocking to see our region rank so high on the list. However safe or crime-free you believe your area to be, you could still be at threat from tool thefts. Making changes or investing in security or storage may seem unnecessary, but it could save your business thousands of pounds and stress down the line.”

“Business owners in these areas may also benefit from reviewing their business assets and selling any tools or equipment they no longer need. Reduced tool collections can also be easier to store and keep in secure locations on an evening or weekend.”

For a full breakdown of the areas with the highest tool thefts and which tools are most likely to be stolen, visit BPI Auctions

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Important Updates and Information About the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit https://bdcmagazine.com/2022/09/important-updates-and-information-about-the-camp-lejeune-water-contamination-lawsuit/ Mon, 12 Sep 2022 04:05:00 +0000 https://www.bdcmagazine.com/?p=120394 The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal was a major issue and affected nearly a million people over several decades. For those who were affected by the toxic contamination at Camp Lejeune, or have a loved one who was affected, the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a massive deal. To ensure you make […]

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The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal was a major issue and affected nearly a million people over several decades. For those who were affected by the toxic contamination at Camp Lejeune, or have a loved one who was affected, the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is a massive deal. To ensure you make the most of this act’s passage, here are some important updates and information to catch you up on the Camp Lejeune Justice Act:

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act Passes Congress

Congress has finally passed the Honoring Our PACT Act, which covers a massive range of cases where veterans and family members were exposed to toxic burn pits and other sources of toxic contamination. The Camp Lejeune Justice Act was a key part of the larger PACT legislation and was created to oversee lawsuits regarding the toxic water contamination that occurred for decades at Camp Lejeune. Nearly a million people have been estimated to have suffered life-altering medical conditions due to the toxic exposure they experienced at Camp Lejeune during their residencies. Additionally, TruLaw has information on the Camp Lejeune lawsuit.

Are You Eligible to File a Camp Lejeune Justice Act Lawsuit?

Under the text of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, anywho who “resided, worked, or was otherwise exposed” to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or longer (between August 1st, 1953 and December 31st, 1987) could be eligible to file a damages claim. Military members, their family members, non-military workers, civilian contractors, and other long-term residents who lived at Camp Lejeune are all eligible to file a lawsuit under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. For those uncertain about their eligibility status, talking to a knowledgeable attorney about Camp Lejeune lawsuit representation is highly recommended.

Can the Family Members of Deceased Loved Ones File Lawsuits as Well?

The text of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows relatives (or legal representatives) to file claims on behalf of people both living and deceased, as long as they were exposed to the toxic, contaminated water at Camp Lejeune Justice during the qualifying period. In addition to legal representatives, the individuals that can file for living or deceased folk include an exposed individual’s child, spouse, parent, or sibling.

What Illnesses are Linked to the Water Contamination at Camp Lejeune?

A large list of illnesses, many of them life-long or life-altering, have been connected to toxic exposure linked to the water contamination at Camp Lejeune. These illnesses have been put together by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), which is a public health agency. More action is needed to keep similar water contamination issues from happening around the country. Other studies were combined with the ATSDR’s initial study to compile the following list of Camp Lejeune-connected illnesses:

-Soft Tissue Cancer

-Rectal Cancer

-Pancreatic Cancer

-Ovarian Cancer

-Prostate Cancer

-Lung Cancer

-Liver Cancer

-Multiple Myeloma

Breast Cancer

-Bladder Cancer

-Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

-Leukemia

-Kidney Cancer

-Esophageal Cancer

-Brain Cancer

-Cardiac Birth Defects

-Neural Tube Defects

-Fetal Death

-Low Birth Weight

-Female Infertility

-Choanal Atresia

-Miscarriage

-Major Malformations

-Oral Cleft Defects

-Liver Cirrhosis

-Scleroderma

-Parkinson Disease

-End-Stage Renal Disease

Differences Between VA Disability Benefits and Lawsuits Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act

There was already legislation passed to help those exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune gain VA benefits in 2012 – the Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012. The act provided needed health care benefits to veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, as well as their family members, as long as they suffered from any of these 15 health conditions:

-Esophageal Cancer

-Breast Cancer

-Bladder Cancer

-Lung Cancer

-Kidney Cancer

-Scleroderma

-Leukemia

-Miscarriage

-Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

-Renal Toxicity

-Myelodysplastic Syndromes

-Hepatic Steatosis

-Female Infertility

-Neurobehavioral Effects

-Multiple Myeloma

The History of Camp Lejeune’s Water Contamination

The Camp Lejeune water contamination scandal is one of the most prominent in U.S. history. From the 1950s to the 1980s, two toxic wells contaminated all water on the base and led to health issues for an estimated 750,000+ people. The contamination occurred due to a large multitude of volatile organic compounds finding their way into the water: including benzene, vinyl chloride, tetrachloroethylene, and others. The toxic contamination originated from several sources, including industrial spills, underground storage tank leaks, waste disposal sites, and other mismanagement.

When Should I File a Lawsuit Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act?

Now that Congress has passed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, you should act immediately to file a lawsuit. Hundreds of millions of dollars are expected to be paid out in settlements in the first year of these lawsuits alone, so it is finally time for you to receive the restitution you deserve from the United States government.

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