MP Michael Shanks raises constituents’ concerns over factoring arrangements

MP Michael Shanks Brings Constituents’ Concerns over Factoring Arrangements to Scottish Government

Rutherglen’s MP, Michael Shanks, has taken a stand against the Scottish Government regarding issues raised by residents in Cambuslang over legislation protecting homeowners from poor factoring practices. Shanks has responded to the numerous concerns brought forward by constituents, shedding light on how the current law appears to favour factors rather than prioritising the rights of tenants and homeowners.

In 2013, the Scottish Government acknowledged the existence of such issues and pledged to implement reforms. However, despite ongoing pressure from MSPs and the public, Shanks noted that no changes have been made either in the legal framework or in practice. This has sparked frustration among residents who feel that their concerns have gone unresolved for too long.

The MP has directly addressed Siobhian Brown, Scotland’s Minister for Community Safety, highlighting the community’s worries and questioning when the proposed reforms will come into effect. Shanks expressed, “My constituents are concerned about how they were notified of their obligations under the deeds of conditions in their title deeds and the lack of accountability from factoring companies, particularly regarding the cost, quality of work, and the absence of any input from homeowners.”

Shanks emphasised the need for a rebalance in legislation to protect the rights of tenants and homeowners, stating that the SNP had promised to address these issues almost a decade ago but has not taken any significant action since. Calling out the Scottish Government for placing this matter low on their list of priorities, Shanks stressed that this inaction is unacceptable to his constituents.

Ewan Miller lodged a petition with the Scottish Parliament in March 2023 to review and simplify the legislation related to the dismissal of property factors, which is currently under review. The Scottish Government has highlighted that standards of practice for property factors are outlined in a statutory Code of Conduct, which was updated in 2021 to enhance homeowners’ understanding of their rights and how to hold factors accountable.

A Scottish Government spokesperson mentioned ongoing efforts to improve standards in the property factor sector, including preparing a voluntary code of practice for dismissing and replacing land-owning land maintenance companies to assist homeowners.

### Summary:
MP Michael Shanks has taken a proactive approach in raising concerns over factoring arrangements that have been negatively impacting residents in Cambuslang. Despite promises of reforms by the Scottish Government dating back to 2013, no significant changes have been implemented, prompting frustration among constituents. Shanks’s advocacy for the rights of tenants and homeowners reflects his commitment to addressing these long-standing issues and holding the government accountable for prioritising necessary reforms.