Residential Property

Our guides provide information on a range of matters which arise for Irish resident owners of residential investment property in England and Wales.

 

The process of buying and selling residential property is superficially similar to that in Ireland, but the procedures and practices are significantly different. It is generally unlawful to place a residential property for sale in England and Wales without preparing and making available a Home Information Pack for prospective purchasers.

 

Many, if not most, Irish residential investors in England and Wales own apartments. Our guide to apartment leases sets out the typical terms and conditions which are found in the long apartment leases, under which most apartments are owned.

 

Issues and conflicts may arise between owners, management companies and ground landlords. Our guide to the statutory rights of apartment owners highlights the significant rights and protections which owners enjoy.

 

The law and practice in letting residential property is of great practical significance to the residential property investor. There are special mandatory rules in relation to tenant's deposits. There is a specific Court procedure for reclaiming possession if it is not given back voluntarily by a tenant.

 

The receipt of rental income in England and Wales raises both UK income tax obligations and Irish income tax obligations. It may well be the case that there is no ultimate tax liability either in the UK and/or Republic of Ireland, but obligations to make returns and filings still arise. The purchase, sale and gifting and inheritance of residential property has other UK tax implications and other Irish tax law implications.

 

Construction works or change of use to a property raise implications under England and Wales Planning Permission and Building Regulations law. The systems are broadly similar to those in Ireland but have significant differences and details.