What Is a Unilateral Contract? UK Law, Examples & Risks
Key Takeaways A unilateral contract under UK law is a binding agreement where one party makes a promise, which becomes enforceable only when the other party completes a stated act. Reward offers, loyalty schemes, and digital incentives are common business examples of unilateral contracts. Acceptance happens through performance, so your obligations only arise when the […]
How to Change a Residential Property to Commercial: Step-by-Step UK Guide
Key Takeaways Converting residential property to commercial use in England and Wales requires a clear legal process, starting with checking the property’s use class and securing planning permission. Applying for change of use planning permission means submitting essential documents—like a fire safety statement and a design and access statement—to your local council. Failing to obtain […]
Types of Companies UK: A Complete Guide to Legal Structures
Key Takeaways The UK offers several company types — sole trader, partnership, LLP, Ltd, PLC, and more — each with unique rules on liability, tax, and control. Picking the wrong business structure can result in unexpected personal liability, unnecessary tax, or costly disputes. Understanding limited liability is crucial: a sole trader puts personal assets at […]
Can an Executor Decide Who Gets What? UK Legal Limits Explained
Key Takeaways Executors in the UK cannot choose who receives what from an estate; they must strictly follow the will or, if none exists, the legal rules of intestacy. Executors have core responsibilities including asset valuation, debt settlement, and fair distribution—always governed by UK law and the terms of the will. Beneficiaries are protected by […]
How Long Does It Take to Get Inheritance Money UK? Timeline & Tips
Key Takeaways The typical timeframe to receive inheritance money in the UK is 6–12 months, though a range of factors may increase or decrease this period. A grant of probate (or letters of administration if no will exists) is usually a legal requirement before inheritance funds can be paid out. Delays are most often caused […]
What Does an Executor of a Will Do? UK Duties & Step-by-Step Guide
Key Takeaways An executor of a will plays a vital role in estate administration, ensuring the deceased’s wishes are carried out correctly in England and Wales. Executor duties in the UK include valuing the estate, settling debts, paying inheritance tax, and distributing assets to beneficiaries in line with the will. Failing to properly fulfil executor […]
Laws on Fencing Between Neighbours UK: Rights, Rules & Disputes [2025]
Key Takeaways UK laws on fencing between neighbours define who owns a boundary fence, who is responsible for repairs, and what each party is legally allowed to do to their side. Fence ownership and repair responsibilities are usually found in your title deeds, Land Registry records, or marked on property plans with T-marks. You generally […]
Changing Names on House Deeds UK: Step-by-Step Legal Guide
Key Takeaways Changing names on house deeds in the UK is a clear legal process with the right documents and careful completion of Land Registry forms. You must supply original legal proof—such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or deed poll—when requesting a name update on property deeds. Using the correct HM Land Registry form […]
Statute of Limitations England: Key Time Limits & Claim Checker
Key Takeaways Strict legal time limits apply to most claims in England—if you miss them, your case is usually lost. Missing a “limitation period” means your claim is “statute barred”; you may lose your right to court action or compensation. Most contract claims must be started within six years; personal injury claims usually have just […]
Allowable Deductions for Capital Gains Tax on UK Property: Full Checklist & Guide
Key Takeaways Understanding allowable deductions for capital gains tax (CGT) on UK property ensures you reduce your CGT bill and avoid overpaying HMRC. You can deduct genuine costs such as purchase price, stamp duty, legal fees, estate agent fees, and qualifying property improvements. Day-to-day maintenance and running costs generally are not deductible. Meticulous evidence-gathering and […]
