Listen Without Prejudice | A Podcast from Bishop & Sewell

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Ben Williamson, Senior Associate, to unpack one of the most important and often underestimated legal roles: being an executor. Acting as an executor can be an onerous responsibility, particularly when it begins at a time of grief. Nicholas and Ben guide listeners through the executor’s journey from the date of death through to the final distribution of the estate, highlighting where risks commonly arise and how professional support can help avoid costly mistakes. The discussion covers the practical realities executors face, including organising funerals, securing and insuring property, locating and valuing assets, reporting to HMRC, applying for probate, and managing tax liabilities. Ben also explains why executors can become personally liable if taxes are underpaid or assets are distributed too early and why careful record-keeping and due diligence are essential. Whether you’ve been named as an executor, are considering appointing one, or simply want to understand how estate administration works in practice, this episode provides clear, practical guidance and expert insight into a role that carries real legal and financial responsibility. Chapter Markers: (01:00) – When the executor’s role begins, often without warning (04:45) – Protecting property: insurance, vacancy, and risk management (08:30) – Locating assets and avoiding underreporting to HMRC (14:30) – Valuations: property, chattels, and Red Book reports (17:30) – Can you refuse to be an executor? Renunciation and intermeddling (22:00) – The “executor’s year” and beneficiary expectations (23:00) – Finalising the estate and what happens if assets appear later Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Ben Williamson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Karen Bright (Head of Litigation) is joined by Farzana Rahman (Associate Solicitor, Residential Property) for a practical discussion on some of the most common, and costly, issues that affect leaseholders, landlords, and buyers of leasehold property. From management packs and managing agents to service charge disputes, cladding, lease variations, and property fraud, Karen and Farzana share real-world insight from both the contentious and transactional sides of the table. Together they explore how leaseholders can protect their interests, what to watch out for during a purchase, and why due diligence is key before you sign on the dotted line. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a landlord, or an experienced property professional, this episode offers valuable takeaways on navigating the complexities of leasehold ownership and avoiding the legal and financial pitfalls that can follow. Chapter Markers: (03:00) – Costs, delays & why missing packs can derail a sale (05:40) – Outdated lease clauses & varying leases through the Tribunal (07:00) – What happens when service charges aren’t paid? (08:00) – The First-tier Tribunal’s role in service charge disputes (09:15) – Property fraud: how to protect your home and title (10:45) – Selling with a tenant in situ & the challenges of vacant possession (12:00) – Karen’s advice for anyone buying a leasehold property (15:00) – Can you claim common parts as your own? Demise vs. trespass Useful Links: Connect with Karen Bright on LinkedIn Reach out to Farzana Rahman on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Nicholas Barlow, Head of Private Client at Bishop and Sewell, and Luke Jenkins tackle one of the most common questions in inheritance tax planning: can you give your home away to your children whilst still living in it? The conversation reveals why this seemingly simple solution rarely works as intended. The hosts explain the concept of "gift with reservation of benefit," legislation from 1986 that prevents people from sidestepping inheritance tax by transferring property deeds whilst continuing to live there rent-free. Despite no longer owning the property, the value remains frozen in your estate on death, potentially creating nasty surprises for executors and even forcing children to sell the home to pay unexpected tax bills. However, Nicholas and Luke explore several legitimate strategies that can work when properly implemented. These include paying full market rent to your children throughout your lifetime with professional valuations reviewed annually, genuine co-occupation arrangements where children move in to provide care, downsizing and gifting the surplus cash, and gifting a small share of the property to secure co-ownership discounts of 10 to 15 per cent. The hosts highlight important risks including that rental payments must continue for your entire lifetime, children receiving rent must pay income tax, care authorities may view transfers as deliberate asset deprivation, and new owners face potential complications from divorce or financial difficulties. Proper documentation including tenancy agreements, declarations of trust, and updated insurance becomes essential. Throughout the discussion, Nicholas and Luke emphasise that whilst inheritance tax planning through property gifting is possible, it requires professional advice to navigate successfully. This episode is essential listening for homeowners considering inheritance tax planning.  For tailored advice, Bishop and Sewell's Private Client team is available at bishopandsewell.co.uk or via LinkedIn. Chapter Markers: (00:00) - Introduction and Overview of the Podcast (00:42) - Meet the Experts: Nicholas Baller and Luke Jenkins (00:58) - Gifting the Family Home: The Classic Question and Disappointing Answer (01:18) - Tax Implications: Understanding Gift with Reservation of Benefit (02:58) - Rental Agreements: Paying Market Rent and Keeping Proper Records (04:04) - Care Costs and Deliberate Deprivation of Assets Concerns (04:36) - Successful Case Studies: When Rental Arrangements Work Well (08:47) - Inheritance Tax Allowances, Co-Ownership Discounts and Alternative Strategies (11:07) - Summary: When Gifting Works and the Risks to Consider (11:46) - Closing Remarks and How to Get in Touch Useful Links Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Luke Jenkins on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Chris Macartney (Partner, Landlord & Tenant) sits down with Mark Chick (Partner, Head of Landlord & Tenant) to review progress one year on from the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (LAFRA) and assess whether the government is keeping its promises. Following Matthew Pennycook’s November 2024 ministerial statement, eight major consultations were promised to drive reform in the leasehold sector. Chris and Mark revisit those commitments, from right to manage and building insurance commissions to service charges, enfranchisement rates, and commonhold. As they tick through the list, the conversation reveals where genuine progress has been made and where reform has stalled. With the Arctime Freeholders v Secretary of State case now decided by the High Court, they also discuss what the ruling could mean for the next phase of implementation and what leaseholders and freeholders should be doing now. This is an essential listen for property professionals, landlords, managing agents, and anyone navigating the evolving leasehold landscape. Chapter Markers: (00:00) – Introduction: Setting the scene for the review and the recent High Court decision in Arctime Freeholders v Secretary of State (01:00) – Revisiting Matthew Pennycook’s 2024 statement and the eight promised consultations (04:00) – Service Charges and Legal Costs: the ongoing consultation and why landlords’ automatic cost recovery is changing (05:00) – Enfranchisement Reform: capitalisation and deferment rates; the missing consultation and the judicial review delay (07:00) – Consumer Protection and Estate Management Charges: integrating rent charges into the service charge framework (11:00) – Regulation of Managing Agents: calls for greater oversight following poor management practices (15:00) – The High Court’s Human Rights Ruling: implications for LAFRA’s implementation and what comes next Useful Links: Connect with Chris Macartney on LinkedIn Reach out to Mark Chick on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Andrew Kavanagh (Partner, Corporate & Commercial) and Charles Wilson (Solicitor, Corporate & Commercial) break down the Football Governance Act 2025, now law, and what the creation of an Independent Football Regulator could mean for club licensing, finances, sponsorships, and timelines.  They explore fresh findings from the Fair Game Index on how many clubs are “regulator ready,” why cash buffers and governance standards matter, where the guidance still feels thin, and the likely push-and-pull between compliance and commercial reality. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan, club executive, or simply curious about how the beautiful game is run off the pitch, this episode delivers expert insight, grounded analysis, and a clear look at how the new regulator will shape the future of English football. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow Listen Without Prejudice on your favourite podcast platform and leave us a rating or review, it helps others discover the show and supports our work bringing you more expert insights from Bishop & Sewell. Chapter Markers: (01:00) – Setting the scene: from Bill to Act and the IFR’s brief (04:30) – Cash buffers & risk: why nearly half the pyramid is vulnerable (08:10) – Who helps clubs get “match fit”? Governance pros and the cottage industry to come (09:05) – Lessons from 2008: why buffers and prudence may be inevitable (10:20) – Timelines & next steps: expect years, not months; watch this space Useful Links: Connect with Charles Wilson on LinkedIn Reach out to Andrew Kavanagh on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Sean Randall, widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading experts on Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). Together, they delve into one of the most talked-about and often misunderstood areas of property law and taxation. The conversation begins with the Angela Rayner stamp duty controversy, exploring how a complex trust arrangement led to unexpected tax consequences and what it reveals about the intricacies of SDLT. From there, Sean and Charlie unpack the increasing complexity of stamp duty, the rise of stamp duty reclaim agents, and the grey areas around chattels and uninhabitable property claims. They also discuss ongoing calls for stamp duty reform, including proposals to replace it with a property ownership tax or merge it with council tax and assess the potential political and economic fallout of such changes. The episode concludes with a look at the Nigel Farage property story, illustrating how public scrutiny intersects with private ownership and tax law. Whether you’re a property professional, investor, or simply curious about one of the UK’s most contentious taxes, this episode offers expert clarity, practical advice, and a candid glimpse into the evolving world of property taxation. Chapter Markers: (01:15) – The Angela Rayner controversy explained (04:00) – Why stamp duty has become so complicated (09:00) – Stamp duty reclaim agents: risk or reward? (19:45) – Should we abolish stamp duty altogether? (22:00) – Proposals for reform: council tax integration and annual property taxes (27:15) – The politics of stamp duty: lessons from history (32:45) – Sean’s golden rule: trust your conveyancer Useful Links: Connect with Sean Randall on LinkedIn or via email: sean@seanrandalltax.com Reach out to Charlie Davidson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Senior Associate Charlie Davidson is joined by Mark Chick, Senior Partner and leading leasehold law expert at Bishop & Sewell, for an in-depth discussion on one of the most significant shake-ups to property law in decades: the Leasehold Reform Act 2024. Although the Act was passed with cross-party support, many of its key provisions remain dormant, and a major judicial review could determine if and when they ever take effect.  Charlie and Mark unpack the legal complexities behind this pivotal case, from human rights challenges and the right to property under Article 1, Protocol 1 of the ECHR, to the potential economic fallout for freeholders and leaseholders alike. Whether you’re a property owner, investor, or simply interested in how legal policy shapes the real estate market, this episode offers a clear, practical, and nuanced guide to the future of leasehold law. Chapter Markers: (01:24) – What’s in the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 and why it matters (02:45) – Understanding judicial review: Challenging government decisions (06:50) – Practical advice: Should you extend your lease now or wait? (10:38) – From High Court to Strasbourg: The legal journey ahead (13:10) – Mark’s view: Why wholesale reform and phased implementation make sense (15:54) – Final thoughts: Balancing reform with market realities Useful Links: Connect with Mark Chick on LinkedIn Reach out to Charlie Davidson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Ben Williamson, Senior Associate, to explore the many ways trusts can be used within wills to provide protection, clarity, and peace of mind for families. Whether you're a parent concerned about safeguarding your children's inheritance, part of a blended family navigating complex property arrangements, or looking to ensure long-term protection for vulnerable beneficiaries, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical insights. Nicholas and Ben delve into the types of trusts typically used in wills — from simple age contingencies to sophisticated discretionary structures — and discuss their benefits, inheritance tax considerations, and flexibility. They also unpack real-world scenarios involving property ownership, remarriage, mortgages, vulnerable beneficiaries, and cross-generational estate planning. This episode is essential listening for anyone thinking about how best to structure their estate to ensure their loved ones are protected — now and into the future. Chapter Markers: (01:45) Why Age Contingencies Are Technically Trusts (03:00) Choosing the Right Trustee (04:45) Inheritance Tax Implications for Spouses (06:00) The Role of Joint Tenants vs. Tenants in Common (08:30) Managing Mortgages and Liabilities (12:30) Letters of Wishes: Their Importance and Benefits (13:30) Discretionary Trusts for Complex Family Needs (15:45) Final Thoughts: Importance of Legal Advice Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Ben Williamson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Ben Williamson, Senior Associate, to shed light on one of the lesser-known — but highly effective — inheritance tax exemptions: normal expenditure out of income. Nicholas and Ben break down how this exemption works, why it’s often overlooked, and how it can be a powerful way to pass wealth to your loved ones without falling foul of inheritance tax. They explore key criteria, practical examples, and common pitfalls — such as why the exemption only applies to surplus income (not capital) and the importance of keeping clear records to protect your executors later on. The conversation also touches on strategic uses of this exemption, like funding life insurance policies or trusts to prepare for future tax liabilities, and why professional advice and solid documentation are critical for making this approach bulletproof. If you’re keen to understand how to make regular gifts out of your surplus income, avoid the 40% tax hit on growing estates, or learn how these rules could be used to support your family in a tax-efficient way, this episode is for you. Chapter Markers: (02:08) What counts as income? From salaries to pensions and investments (02:42) How this exemption avoids the 7-year inheritance tax rule (03:36) Proving intention: Why records and documentation matter (04:21) Common traps: Giving assets vs. giving surplus cash (05:20) The role of executors and reporting after death (06:15) Putting surplus income to work: Trusts and life insurance (07:59) Getting the right advice and policy structures Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Ben Williamson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team at Bishop & Sewell, sits down with Ben Williamson, Senior Associate, to unravel the complexities of family trusts. Together, they explore how trusts can be a powerful tool for safeguarding family wealth, protecting vulnerable beneficiaries, and achieving long-term estate planning goals. From second homes in Devon to blocks of shares laden with gains, they discuss practical examples of when trusts make sense — and just as importantly, when they might not. Ben and Nicholas demystify how trusts operate in the UK, including the realities of inheritance tax, capital gains tax, and the much-discussed “seven-year rule.” They also explain why a carefully drafted settlement deed is just the start and how private letters of wishes can capture the true intent behind the trust — guiding trustees for generations to come. If you’re considering how best to preserve assets for future generations, mitigate hefty tax hits, or simply want to understand how trusts differ from more straightforward gifting, this episode provides clear, expert insight. Chapter Markers: (02:13) Trusts as a tool for asset protection (young & vulnerable beneficiaries) (05:10) Reserving a benefit: when trusts work (or don’t) for tax (07:02) The “seven-year rule” and nil-rate band implications (10:08) Capital gains tax: holdover relief and long-term planning (13:36) Updating land registry titles and changing trustees (14:48) Letters of wishes: the private document that guides trustees (16:14) How to wind up a trust and tax on 10-year anniversaries (18:14) Summary: why trusts might be right for families with significant assets Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Ben Williamson on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this insightful episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Senior Partner Mark Chick is joined by Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team at Bishop & Sewell, to explore what it truly means to be an executor of a will — a role that is often misunderstood and frequently underestimated. They unpack the legal obligations, financial liabilities, and personal dynamics involved in administering an estate, offering practical advice for those considering naming — or being named — as an executor. From the risks of "intermeddling" to the benefits of appointing professionals, this episode offers vital guidance for anyone drafting a will or navigating the probate process. You’ll hear real-world examples, including cases where an executor’s misstep had severe financial consequences, and get clarity on how to protect yourself, your estate, and your beneficiaries. Chapter Markers: (01:09) What Is an Executor, and Why Does It Matter? (03:15) The Responsibilities and Liabilities of Executors (05:39) Protecting Yourself as an Executor: Searches and Notices (07:40) The Role of Professionals in Managing Complex Estates (09:28) Lifelong Commitments: Why the Role May Last Years (11:07) Trustees and Beneficiaries: A Continued Duty of Care Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Mark Chick on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

When it comes to buying the freehold of a building, one of the biggest hurdles is figuring out how to fund it and getting all the leaseholders on the same page. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry—this episode’s here to simplify things. Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, and Chris Macartney, Head of the Landlord and Tenant Department, share their knowledge to make the process feel much more manageable. They walk you through the essential steps of funding a collective freehold purchase, covering everything from participation agreements to overriding leases. If you’re wondering how to deal with non-participant flats or secure external investments, Mark and Chris also dive into how to protect funders’ interests and ensure fairness across the board. Plus, you’ll learn how to bring all leaseholders together, structure a term sheet, and set up clear terms that help avoid confusion or disputes later on. The golden rule? Keep it simple, stay organised, and set clear expectations from the get-go. Whether you’re navigating your first freehold acquisition or just looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with practical insights. Tune in to learn how to avoid common pitfalls and create a solid plan for success. Chapter Markers: (01:09) Navigating collective freehold acquisition (02:24) Handling non-participation and cost allocation (04:26) Addressing the complexities of funding non-participating flats in a collective freehold purchase (08:10) Discussing overriding leases and their role in acquiring a freehold (10:41) Organising and structuring collective enfranchisement Useful Links: Mark Chick LinkedIn Chris Macartney LinkedIn

Share of freehold ownership often leads to confusion, so if you’ve been scratching your head over it, you’re definitely not alone. It’s a topic that comes up frequently between homeowners and prospective buyers, with many unsure of what it really means and how it affects ownership. In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate in the Property Department, and Mark Chick, Senior Partner and Leasehold Expert at Bishop & Sewell, are here to break it down for you. They dive into how a share of freehold works in real life, highlighting both the potential risks and rewards that come with it and uncovering the common pitfalls that people often fall into. They also discuss the legal and practical aspects of owning a share of freehold, addressing key concerns like how decisions are made for repairs, how to manage the property, how to handle issues as they come up, and much more. If you’re curious about property ownership and wondering how a share of freehold compares to leasehold or freehold, this episode is for you.  Tune in for expert advice and real-life examples that will clarify the topic and help you make better-informed decisions in your property journey. Chapter Markers: (01:13) Understanding share of freehold and how it works (03:18) Exploring how the share of freehold works, collective ownership (04:14) Challenges and complications in managing share of freehold (09:50) Navigating shared freeholder ownership and management (14:21) Discussing the advantages and risks of share of freehold ownership (16:33) Understanding the complexity of lease extensions Useful Links: Charlie Davidson LinkedIn Mark Chick LinkedIn

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, corporate partners Andrew Kavanagh and David Little take us through the ins and outs of selling a business — from initial planning to post-sale pitfalls. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or considering an exit for the first time, this conversation is packed with practical insights, cautionary tales, and essential legal know-how. Andrew and David break down the sale process into four key phases: preparing the business for sale, negotiating heads of terms, navigating due diligence, and finalising the legal documentation. They also explore the emotional and strategic implications of exiting a business and why early planning — both legally and psychologically — is key to a smooth transition. From choosing the right broker and securing funding to understanding earn-outs and minimising warranty risk, this episode offers a masterclass in getting the best out of your business sale. Chapter Markers: (01:39) Getting Started: Early Legal and Tax Advice (03:18) Preparing the Business and the Mindset Shift (05:34) Heads of Terms: Structure and Confidentiality (08:15) Due Diligence: Risks, Documentation and Disclosure (10:40) Legal Documentation: SPAs, Warranties and Indemnities (12:08) Earn-Outs: Staying Involved and Hitting KPIs (13:54) Post-Sale Life: Controlling Your Destiny (15:26) Why Timing Matters When Calling Your Lawyer Useful Links: Connect with Andrew Kavanagh on LinkedIn Reach out to David Little on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, corporate partners Andrew Kavanagh and David Little guide first-time business buyers through the key legal and financial considerations when purchasing a company. With practical insights drawn from real-world experience, they explore the fundamental differences between share and asset purchases, the importance of early financial due diligence, and the structuring of deals to mitigate risk. Whether you're navigating deal terms like earn-outs and exclusivity or wondering how to handle seller involvement post-completion, this episode provides a comprehensive overview for anyone stepping into the world of business acquisition. Perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs, private investors, or business owners looking to grow through acquisition, this episode breaks down complex legal concepts into clear, actionable advice. Chapter Markers: (02:00) Share vs. Asset Purchases: What’s the Difference? (04:00) Funding a Purchase: Financing Options & Pitfalls (06:00) Due Diligence: The Financial First Step (08:00) Legal Due Diligence & Structuring the Deal (10:00) Working with the Seller Post-Completion (11:00) Employees, TUPE, and Non-Competes (12:30) Completion Accounts & Retaining Value Useful Links: Connect with Andrew Kavanagh on LinkedIn Reach out to David Little on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Thom Wilkinson, Head of Residential Property Team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Karen Bright, Head of Litigation, for a comprehensive discussion on the hidden pitfalls of property transactions. From holding deposits and disclosure obligations to service charge caps and incomplete transactions, Thom and Karen explore real-world issues buyers and sellers face in today’s property market. Whether you're navigating a leasehold agreement, facing unexpected completion delays, or wondering about your responsibilities as a seller, this episode is packed with crucial legal insights to guide you through complex scenarios. You’ll also hear about recent case law that’s impacting transactions, including the now-infamous London moth infestation ruling, and how landlords are being scrutinised under new government reforms affecting service charges. If you're a property owner, buyer, seller, or legal professional, this episode offers indispensable guidance on protecting your interests and avoiding costly mistakes. Chapter Markers: (02:04) Holding Deposits: What Are the Risks? (04:06) Disclosure Duties and Neighbour Disputes (06:01) Case Law: Moth Infestation & Non-Disclosure (08:21) What Happens When Completion Fails? (11:37) Service Charges: What Can Landlords Really Charge? (15:33) What If Services Aren’t Delivered? Tenant Remedies Useful Links: Connect with Thom Wilkinson on LinkedIn Reach out to Karen Bright on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Senior Partner Mark Chick is joined by Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team at Bishop & Sewell, to explore the often misunderstood world of Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA). Nicholas explains the key differences between EPAs and the more modern Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA), the potential challenges of managing these documents, and why it might be time to review or replace your EPA. From practical advice on when to register an EPA to insights on capacity and the responsibilities of attorneys, this episode offers essential guidance for anyone navigating the complexities of long-term planning — whether for themselves or a loved one. If you’re wondering about the risks of using an outdated EPA, the critical moments when an EPA must be registered, or why an LPA might offer a more robust solution, you’ll find the answers here. Chapter Markers: (02:00) Key Differences Between EPAs and LPAs (04:00) The Complexity of Assessing Capacity (06:30) Real-World Challenges of Using EPAs (08:00) When to Review or Replace Your EPA (09:00) Final Thoughts and Practical Advice Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Mark Chick on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Senior Partner Mark Chick is joined by Nicholas Barlow from Bishop & Sewell’s Private Client team to discuss everything you need to know about Powers of Attorney. Nicholas explains the different types of Powers of Attorney, when and why you should consider setting them up, and how they can safeguard your financial and personal welfare decisions in the future.  From practical tips on family discussions to insights into business LPAs and avoiding common pitfalls, this episode offers essential advice for anyone thinking about future planning — whether for themselves, a loved one, or in a business context. If you’re wondering about the difference between financial and health & welfare powers, when a Power of Attorney is activated, or how attorneys are restricted in making decisions, you’ll find the answers here. Chapter Markers: (01:24) What is a Power of Attorney? (05:16) Financial vs. Health & Welfare Powers of Attorney (10:30) Living wills vs. Powers of Attorney (11:41) Registering a Power of Attorney (13:20) Powers of Attorney for business owners (15:19) Can attorneys be paid? Useful Links: Connect with Nicholas Barlow on LinkedIn Reach out to Mark Chick on LinkedIn Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we explore the current landscape of leasehold valuation reform with two of the UK’s leading voices in this field — Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, and Charlie Davidson Senior Associate Residential Property.  With major changes to valuation on the horizon, including the government's proposed move to an ‘online calculator’ and the simplification of the process for leaseholders to buy their freehold or extend their lease, this conversation unpacks the complexities, timelines, and legal implications of reform. Mark and Charlie dissect the Law Commission’s valuation recommendations and examine the government’s intentions, including the push to abolish marriage value and fix rates like deferment and relativity. They also reflect on the professional and legal concerns that remain, especially for valuers and practitioners navigating a landscape filled with uncertainty. Whether you're a legal professional, valuer, or simply trying to understand how upcoming legislation might affect your property, this episode is packed with insights. Chapter Markers: (00:58) Setting the scene – How we got here and what’s at stake (02:01) What the government wants to achieve through valuation reform (03:20) The Law Commission’s recommendations vs. the government’s direction (04:36) Concerns about abolishing marriage value and fixing the deferment rate (05:55) Practical implications for valuers and legal professionals (07:14) Unpacking the proposed online calculator – what might it look like? (08:23) Why current reforms may lead to further litigation (09:37) Predictions for what the legislation may include (10:32) Transitional issues and what we still don’t know Useful Links: Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 Mark Chick LinkedIn Charlie Davidson LinkedIn Bishop & Sewell Website

The abolition of the two-year ownership rule is a major shift in leasehold legislation—but what does it actually mean for buyers and sellers in today’s property market? In this episode, Charlie Davidson sits down with Mark Chick to unpack the real-world implications of this long-anticipated change under the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024. Together, they explore the origins of the two-year rule, why it existed in the first place, and how its removal impacts lease extensions, registration timelines, and strategic decision-making during property transactions. They also touch on the complexities that remain, including the notorious registration gap, and why buyers may still want sellers to serve notice even with the reform in place. Whether you're a buyer, seller, agent, or legal professional, this episode offers clear, practical insights into a change that’s set to affect thousands of transactions. Chapter Markers: (00:48) What was the two-year rule, and why did it exist? (01:40) The implications of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (03:24) Removing residence requirements and historic inconsistencies (04:58) Debunking the myth: Lease extensions still aren’t “quick fixes” (05:38) Understanding the registration gap and its real cost (06:54) How long can it take to register a property? (Hint: It’s longer than you think) (07:55) The importance of expert coordination during transactions (08:17) Why swift action is still crucial for short leases (08:42) Looking ahead: Further reforms on the horizon? Useful Links: Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 Mark Chick LinkedIn Charlie Davidson LinkedIn Bishop & Sewell Website