Don't be 'flat broke' in Scotland

Under One Roof, a major new free website designed to help the half million plus private flat owners in Scotland with the complex and important task of carrying out repairs to their shared properties, has been launched by Scottish Government Housing Minister, Kevin Stewart MSP at an event in Glasgow.

 

Written by Annie Flint and John Gilbert, the authors of the acclaimed Tenement Handbook originally published by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) over 20 years ago, the site contains over 100 articles on flat owners’ legal responsibilities towards their co-owners and over 70 technical information articles that enable owners to identify repair problems and understand quotations from builders.

 

The site has over 100, specially commissioned, drawings, 200 photographs and a Repair Symptoms Checker to help owners pin down what is affecting their building’s health. Downloadable model letters will make the whole process easier for owners. Advice on dealing with owners who refuse to participate in critical repairs is also provided.

 

This site is for owners of all types and ages of shared residential properties and their advisers. It will help owners of: traditional stone tenements, newly built apartment blocks, ex local authority tenements, four-in-a-blocks and converted houses.

 

Advisers who will also benefit are: property managers in all sectors, Architectural Technology professionals, architects, surveyors, community organisations and advice workers.

 

Kevin Stewart, Minister for Housing, said,

 

'When you are a flat owner, it can be hard to know where to start when repairs or the maintenance of communal areas like closes and roofs are needed.

 

'Under One Roof is a great new tool that will help home owners understand their obligations when it comes to property and shared spaces and provide free and impartial advice.'

 

To find out more click here.