MP Michael Shanks has brought up the concerns of his constituents regarding factoring arrangements in Cambuslang, as reported by the Daily Record. The residents have expressed worries over legislation that is meant to protect homeowners from poor factoring practices. Shanks notes that there have been numerous issues raised by constituents, highlighting how the current law seems to favour factors over the rights of tenants and homeowners. The Scottish Government had pledged to reform these issues back in 2013, but Shanks points out that there has been no visible change in either the legal framework or the actual practices.
Despite ongoing pressure from MSPs and the public, Shanks criticises the lack of progress in implementing the proposed reforms. He has directly contacted Scotland’s Minister for Community Safety, Siobhian Brown, to express the concerns of the community and to seek clarity on when the promised reforms will be put into effect. Shanks emphasises that many constituents are dissatisfied with how they were informed about their obligations under the title deeds and the lack of accountability from factoring companies, especially regarding costs, work quality, and homeowner input.
In response to the inaction from the Scottish Government, Shanks calls for a change that will protect the rights of tenants and homeowners, accusing the government of relegating this important issue to the bottom of its priorities. A petition lodged with the Scottish Parliament in 2023, which called for a review and simplification of legislation related to property factors, is still being considered. The Scottish Government, through a spokesperson, highlights that there are existing standards of practice for property factors outlined in the statutory Code of Conduct, updated in 2021 to improve homeowner understanding and accountability of property factors.
In conclusion, MP Michael Shanks’ efforts to advocate for the concerns of his constituents regarding factoring arrangements shed light on the need for reforms to protect the rights of tenants and homeowners in Cambuslang. The ongoing lack of action from the Scottish Government in addressing these pressing issues underscores the importance of reforming legislation to ensure fair treatment and accountability in property factor practices.