PRESS RELEASE

February 26th, 2010

Factor hope

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil is backing a bill that will give homeowners more protection by enforcing new standards on factors and property managers.

A private member’s bill has been lodged by Patricia Ferguson MSP that would require all factors in Scotland to be registered and accredited by an official body.

Mr McNeil believes the bill will make ‘rogue’ factors accountable to residents and ensure they get a better deal for services.

He backed the bill this week after a debate in the Scottish Parliament on the issue and is now writing to constituents to gauge views on the proposed bill.

The MSP said: “There are many good factors but there are others who seem to see the job as a licence to print money and simply do not communicate with the people they are supposed to work for.

“The Scottish Government is currently proposing a voluntary scheme but I believe they need to go further and that legislation is required.

“I have received complaints from constituents about a whole range of issues including poor quality repairs, unnecessary work, serious overcharging and substandard service.

“If it receives the backing of the parliament, this legislation will make those factors accountable to residents and ensure they get value for money for the services provided.”

The proposals are supported by a range of organisations including the Property Managers Association and Govan Law Centre.