How to comply with the Money Laundering Regulations (estate agents)

The UK Government has announced a significant change in fire safety oversight, transferring responsibility from the Home Office to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) effective from 1 April 2025. The move responds to a recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report and puts responsibility for building safety and fire under a single Secretary of State, enabling a more joined-up approach.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland are to be revised and updated to give consumers a clearer picture of their home’s energy performance and link better with the drive to cut emissions from buildings. The proposed changes include a new rating system with clearer information on the fabric energy efficiency of a property, the emissions, efficiency and running costs of its heating system, and the cost of energy to run the home.

The UK Government has published a new guide to help make small blocks of flats in England safer from fire. It has practical advice for agents, building managers and owners on improving fire safety in blocks of up to three storeys containing up to six flats and includes new legal requirements introduced through Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022.