With the recent publication of the Law Commission report, clearly moves are afoot in the residential leasehold world to balance out the disparity between the rights of landlords and those of their tenants. Time will only tell what is finally put on the platter for general consumption on that planet. But let us travel deeper into the universe and visit planet ComZog, commonly known on Earth as the commercial leasehold world. Read more...

The period of enforced suspended animation brought about by the pandemic is coming to an end and for the majority there is a sigh of relief and a strong desire to return to normality. However, having been enveloped in a state-controlled protective cocoon for months, the reality is that the Piper’s very large bill now needs be paid and the wake-up call is going to be harsh. Read more...

The Welsh Government has temporarily increased the nil rate band of land transaction tax for residential property transactions in Wales, increasing the nil rate from £180,000 to £250,000 for main residential purchases. The temporary rates apply for main residential purchases between 27 July 2020 and 31 March 2021, but do not apply to purchases of second homes or buy-to-let properties.

From 4 June 2020, a $25,000 grant is available to certain individuals who build a new home or substantially renovate an existing home.

From 3 August 2020, electronic conveyancing takes a big step forward in South Australia.

The Commercial Lease guide has been enhanced with the inclusion of two new precedent documents to assist practitioners: Authorised guarantee agreement and Licence to assign. These can be found in the folder D. If Required – Sublease, assignment, variation and surrender.

As we hurtle down the tracks towards commonhold, it is predicted that draft legislation will be laid before parliament mid to late 2021, with the biggest swathe of leasehold reform since 1925. However, when we finally arrive at our destination, the swathe may not be as big, or as revolutionary, as we would hope. Read more...

Land tax changes apply from midnight 30 June 2020. There will be an increase in the general land tax threshold to $450,000 and a threshold

Important changes to the Retail and Commercial Leases Act 1995 and accompanying Regulations came into effect on 1 July 2020.

Electronic conveyancing commenced in the ACT on 1 June 2020.

Transfer and duty lodgments with Sympli Electronic settlements provider Sympli has expanded its service offering in South Australia.

Transfer and duty lodgments The range of lodgments via Sympli that are available in NSW has expanded.

The very popular By Lawyers reference manual 1001 Conveyancing Answers (VIC) has received an extensive review by our author Russell Cocks.

Significant strata title amendment has been introduced in Western Australia.

Two new precedent deeds for variation of lease have been added to all By Lawyers Leases publications.