Defendants trapped on portal; Peppercorn menu; More abuse; The danger of trusting relatives
ELECROMONIA SPREADS
The damages claims portal marches on. As from 2 June 2022, the portal must be used by defendants who are legally represented for claims within its scope. That’s CPR Update 145 for you which also requires representatives to register with MyHMCTS so that they can do the business and access the portal and receive notifications of claim.
PEPPERCORNS BACK
Ground rents above a peppercorn (and they are pretty valueless, even when organically cultivated) are outlawed under residential leases at a premium for plus 21 years in England and Wales by dint of the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022 which is intended to be commenced on 30 June 2022. Leases escape when granted before the commencement date or contracted for before that date, but the legislation will apply to a grant pursuant to a pre-commencement option or right of first refusal. For existing leaseholders entering into voluntary lease extensions after commencement, the extended portion of their lease will be reduced to a peppercorn.
Leases of retirement