by Saqib Khan | Apr 29, 2025 | General, People, Powers of Attorney, Wills
A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after you die. It is important to have a will because it allows you to control what happens to your property and who inherits it. Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to state law, which may not be in accordance with your wishes.
Here are some of the benefits of having a will:
• You can control who inherits your property. This is the most important benefit of having a will. You can choose who you want to inherit your property, rather than having it distributed according to state law.
• You can choose who you want to be your guardian. If you have minor children, you can choose who you want to be their guardian in your will. This will ensure that your children are taken care of by someone you trust.
• You can choose who you want to be your executor. Your executor is the person who is responsible for carrying out the terms of your will. You can choose someone you trust to be your executor.
• You can make charitable donations. If you want to make charitable donations in your will, you can do so. This is a great way to give back to your community.
• You can avoid probate. Probate is the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s estate. If you have a will, you can avoid probate, which can be a lengthy and expensive process.
Here are some of the things you should consider when making your will:
• Who are your beneficiaries? Your beneficiaries are the people who will inherit your property. You should make a list of your beneficiaries and the percentage of your estate you want to leave to each person.
• Who is your executor? Your executor is the person who will be responsible for carrying out the terms of your will. You should choose someone you trust to be your executor.
• What are your assets? You should make a list of all of your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal property.
• What are your debts? You should make a list of all of your debts, including mortgages, credit cards, and other loans.
• What are your funeral wishes? You should let your executor know your funeral wishes.
It is important to have your will reviewed by an attorney to ensure that it is legally valid. An attorney can also help you to make sure that your will reflects your wishes.
If you do not have a will, you should make one as soon as possible. Having a will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones.
KhanMather is a law firm that can help you with all of your estate planning needs. We can draft a will for you, and we can also help you with other estate planning matters, such as creating a trust or power of attorney.
In addition to the benefits listed above, having a will can also help to:
• Reduce family conflict. When someone dies without a will, their family may argue over who should inherit their property. A will can help to avoid these types of conflicts.
• Protect your minor children. If you have minor children, a will can help to ensure that they are taken care of by someone you trust.
• Provide for your pets. If you have pets, you can include provisions in your will for their care.
• Support your favourite charities. If you want to support your favourite charities, you can include provisions in your will for them.
Having a will is an important part of estate planning. It is a document that can help to ensure that your wishes are carried out after you die.
If you would like to know more, please telephone Hannah on 0161 850 9911 today.
by Saqib Khan | Apr 17, 2025 | Business, Conveyancing, General, Landlord and Tenant Law, People
The tariff’s that President Donald Trump has imposed on all countries is now having a dramatic effect on the world’s markets. we address this below in our article.
Economic Uncertainty
o Tariffs create uncertainty in global markets. This uncertainty can lead to reduced investor confidence, which can affect property market stability.
o Businesses may delay investment decisions, and consumers may become more cautious with significant purchases like property.
Impact on Interest Rates
o Tariffs can influence inflation. If tariffs lead to increased costs for goods, it could push inflation higher.
o Central banks, like the Bank of England, may respond by adjusting interest rates. Changes in interest rates directly affect mortgage affordability and, consequently, property demand.
o There is also the possibility, that due to the Tariffs, that the bank of England may lower interest rates to stimulate the economy. This would have the opposite effect, and make mortgages more affordable.
Effects on the UK Economy
o The UK’s economy is intertwined with global trade. Tariffs could disrupt supply chains and impact UK businesses, potentially leading to slower economic growth.
o A weaker economy can reduce consumer spending power and affect property demand.
Potential for Mortgage Rate Fluctuations
o As financial markets react to tariff-related uncertainty, there could be fluctuations in mortgage rates.
o Changes in swap rates, which influence mortgage pricing, could lead to variations in mortgage affordability.
Key Considerations for KhanMather Clients
Legal Implications
o Tariffs can affect international contracts and business transactions, potentially leading to legal disputes.
o KhanMather can advise clients on the legal implications of tariffs on their property investments and business dealings.
Property Investment Strategies
o Clients should be aware of the potential risks and opportunities that tariffs may create in the property market.
o KhanMather can provide guidance on navigating legal and contractual complexities related to property transactions during times of economic uncertainty.
Economic Monitoring
o It’s crucial to stay informed about economic developments and policy changes that could affect the property market.
o KhanMather can help clients stay updated on relevant legal and economic changes.
In Summary
While predicting the precise impact of tariffs is challenging, it’s clear they can introduce significant economic uncertainty. This uncertainty can ripple through the property market, affecting demand, affordability, and investment decisions. KhanMather can play a vital role in helping clients navigate these complexities and protect their interests.
If you have any questions regarding the above, please contact Hannah @ KhanMather on 0161 850 9911.
by Saqib Khan | Apr 1, 2025 | Conveyancing, General, Landlord and Tenant Law
Here at KhanMather, we understand that buying or selling a property is one of the most significant transactions in anyone’s life. It’s a process filled with legal intricacies, and staying ahead of the curve is crucial. That’s why we’re keeping a close eye on the government’s proposed changes to the TA6 form, set to be implemented in 2026.
What is the TA6 Form?
For those unfamiliar, the TA6 form, officially known as the Property Information Form, is a vital document in residential property transactions in England and Wales. It’s completed by the seller and provides crucial information about the property to the buyer. This includes details about boundaries, disputes, planning permissions, and environmental matters. It’s designed to ensure transparency and help buyers make informed decisions.
Why the Change?
The government’s decision to introduce a new TA6 form in 2026 stems from a desire to modernise the process and address evolving concerns in the property market. Key drivers include:
• Enhanced Transparency: The aim is to provide buyers with more comprehensive and accurate information, reducing the risk of post-completion disputes.
• Environmental Considerations: With increasing focus on climate change, the new form is expected to incorporate more detailed questions about energy efficiency, flood risks, and other environmental factors.
• Digitalisation: The government is pushing for greater digitalisation in property transactions, and the new TA6 form will likely align with this trend.
• Leasehold reform: With the ongoing leasehold reform, it is likely that leasehold properties will have more detailed questions.
What Can We Expect?
While the exact details of the new TA6 form are yet to be finalised, we anticipate the following:
• Expanded Environmental Questions: Expect more in-depth inquiries about energy performance certificates (EPCs), flood risk assessments, and the presence of potentially hazardous materials.
• Updated Boundary and Dispute Information: The form may include more specific questions about boundary disputes, rights of way, and other neighbourly matters.
• Improved Digital Integration: The new form may be designed for easier digital completion and submission, streamlining the transaction process.
• More detailed questions concerning leasehold properties: Due to the upcoming leasehold reform, it is likely that leasehold properties will have more detailed questions.
• Cyber security questions: With the rise of cyber crime, questions may be added to confirm that the seller has taken steps to secure their personal information.
What This Means for You?
For sellers, it’s crucial to start gathering relevant information well in advance of 2026. This includes ensuring your property’s documentation is up-to-date and addressing any potential issues that might arise during the disclosure process.
For buyers, the new TA6 form should provide greater peace of mind, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition and history. However, it’s essential to seek professional legal advice to fully interpret the information provided.
How KhanMather Can Help?
At KhanMather, we’re committed to staying abreast of all legal developments in the property sector. Our experienced solicitors can:
• Provide expert guidance on the new TA6 form and its implications.
• Assist sellers in completing the form accurately and efficiently.
• Advise buyers on interpreting the information provided in the form and conducting thorough due diligence.
• Navigate any potential disputes that may arise during the transaction.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the new TA6 form in 2026 represents a significant step towards a more transparent and efficient property transaction process. We encourage both buyers and sellers to stay informed and seek professional legal advice to ensure a smooth and successful transaction.
If you have any questions about the new TA6 form or any other aspect of property law, please don’t hesitate to contact Hannah at KhanMather on 0161 850 9911.
We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of the property market with confidence!
by Saqib Khan | Mar 27, 2025 | Conveyancing, General, Landlord and Tenant Law
The UK Government is making significant changes to property ownership, with the aim of abolishing the traditional leasehold system for flats in England and Wales. The goal is to make commonhold the standard tenure.
What’s Changing?
• Ban on new leasehold flats: The main proposal is to stop selling new flats under leasehold agreements.
• Commonhold as the new standard: Instead, commonhold ownership will become the norm. This means homeowners will own their flats outright, without a separate freeholder.
What Does Commonhold Mean for Flat Owners?
• Collective Ownership: Flat owners will collectively own and manage the entire building.
• Direct Control: You’ll have direct control over maintenance and related costs, eliminating ground rents.
• Part of an Association: When you buy a home, you’ll automatically become part of a commonhold association. This group will oversee the building’s management, either directly or by hiring a managing agent.
In Summary:
These changes aim to give flat owners more control and security over their properties by moving away from the leasehold system.
by Saqib Khan | Mar 26, 2025 | General, Powers of Attorney, Wills
At KhanMather, we understand that planning for the future and ensuring your wishes are honoured is of utmost importance. A common concern for many is inheritance tax (IHT), and how to manage it effectively. If you’re considering leaving a portion or all of your estate to charity, you’ll be pleased to know that UK law offers significant benefits.
Key Takeaways:
• Gifts to Charity are IHT-Free: Any amount you leave to a registered charity is completely exempt from inheritance tax. This means the full value of your donation goes to the cause you care about.
• Reduced IHT Rate: If you leave 10% or more of your net estate (the value after deducting the nil-rate band and any other reliefs and exemptions) to charity, the standard IHT rate on the remaining taxable portion reduces from 40% to 36%. This can result in a substantial saving for your beneficiaries.
• Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Exemption: If an asset in your estate increases in value between the date of death and its sale, there may be a CGT liability. However, charities are exempt from CGT. Therefore, gifting an asset to charity before its sale can reduce the overall tax liability of your estate.
• Proper Will Drafting is Crucial: To ensure your wishes are carried out and to minimize the risk of your will being challenged, it’s vital to have a properly drafted will. Discuss your plans with your loved ones to avoid potential disputes.
• Deed of Variation: A Deed of Variation allows beneficiaries to redirect their inheritance, potentially offering tax advantages. If someone inherits assets they don’t need, gifting them to their children via a Deed of Variation can bypass the usual 7-year rule for inheritance tax.
Example:
Imagine you are 70 years old with an estate worth £530,000 and wish to leave your wealth to charity. In this scenario, the entire amount left to charity would be exempt from inheritance tax.
Important Note: Special rules apply. It’s crucial to seek professional legal advice when planning your estate, particularly when considering charitable giving.
How KhanMather Can Help:
Our experienced team at KhanMather can provide expert guidance on all aspects of estate planning, including inheritance tax and charitable giving. We can help you:
• Draft a will that accurately reflects your wishes.
• Advise on the most tax-efficient ways to structure your charitable donations.
• Ensure your estate plan is fully compliant with UK law.
Contact Georgina today on 0161 850 9911 for a consultation to discuss your specific circumstances and create a plan that secures your legacy and supports the causes you value.
by Saqib Khan | Mar 18, 2025 | Business, General, People
The current UK law on bereavement leave offers no statutory right to paid time off following the death of a close family member. While many employers offer compassionate leave as part of their employment contracts, there’s no legal obligation to do so, and the specifics of such leave (duration, pay, etc.) vary significantly.
Now, a cross-party group of MPs is calling for a significant change: extending paid bereavement leave to include miscarriage.
This blog post explores the current legal landscape, the proposed changes, and what this could mean for UK employers.
The Current Legal Position on Bereavement Leave
As mentioned, there’s no statutory right to paid bereavement leave in the UK. Employees are entitled to time off for dependants in certain emergency situations, such as when a dependant falls ill or dies. However, this is unpaid leave and often limited in duration. Many employers offer compassionate leave, but this is a contractual right, not a statutory one, meaning the terms are determined by individual company policies.
The Campaign for Miscarriage Inclusion
A growing campaign, supported by MPs from various parties, is advocating for a legal entitlement to paid bereavement leave that specifically includes miscarriage. The argument is that the emotional and physical impact of miscarriage can be profound, and that women (and their partners) should be given adequate time to grieve and recover without the added pressure of returning to work prematurely.
This campaign highlights the often-overlooked emotional toll of miscarriage. Many women experience significant grief and trauma following a pregnancy loss, and the lack of formal recognition of this loss can exacerbate the emotional burden.
What This Could Mean for UK Employers
If the proposed changes are implemented, UK employers will need to adapt their policies and procedures. Here are some key implications:
• Statutory Right: Bereavement leave, including for miscarriage, would become a statutory right, meaning all employers would be legally obligated to provide it.
• Policy Review: Employers would need to review and update their existing bereavement leave policies to ensure compliance with the new legislation.
• Pay and Duration: The legislation would likely specify the duration of leave and the level of pay employees are entitled to. This could involve a set number of weeks of paid leave, potentially at statutory sick pay rates or a higher percentage of normal earnings.
• Training and Awareness: HR departments and line managers would need training to understand the new regulations and handle related situations sensitively.
• Potential Challenges: Defining the scope of “miscarriage” for legal purposes may present challenges, particularly in early pregnancy losses. Clear guidelines would be essential.
The Importance of Compassionate Policies
Regardless of whether the proposed legislation is passed, employers should strive to create compassionate and supportive workplaces.
This includes:
• Clear Bereavement Policies: Having clear and accessible bereavement policies that outline the support available to employees.
• Flexible Working: Offering flexible working arrangements to employees who are grieving.
• Employee Assistance Programs: Providing access to employee assistance programs (EAPs) that offer counselling and support services.
• Sensitivity and Understanding: Fostering a culture of sensitivity and understanding towards employees experiencing loss.
Conclusion
The push to include miscarriage in paid bereavement leave represents a significant step towards recognising the emotional impact of pregnancy loss. While the legal landscape is still evolving, employers should be prepared for potential changes and prioritise creating supportive and compassionate workplaces.
