Social Housing - Scotland
What the Team is Known For
TC Young has acclaimed specialists in social housing with an enviable client list including a considerable number of Scottish registered social landlords (RSLs). The firm is regularly retained to advise on a diverse range of matters, such as property acquisitions, court actions and high-value bond issues. It also acts on procurements, facility agreements and title audits. An additional team strength lies in dispute resolution and governance matters. It advises RSLs on charity law matters, including securing charitable status.
Strengths
"TC Young has a very varied team and ensures we are given the best resources to deal with any queries."
"TC Young keep us up to date with changes to the law that impact our duties as a landlord."
"There is a real teamwork approach among the partners, who cover different specialities but are good at working together to pull matters into concise advice."
"There is great knowledge to call on across the TC Young team."
"TC Young have an excellent grasp of all of the issues, legislation and regulation that we face. There is never an unanswered query."
Work Highlights
TC Young advised the Home Group in Scotland on the negotiation of golden brick acquisition development agreements for four sites providing 145 new housing units.
Notable Practitioners
Len Freedman is a consultant at the firm with extensive experience acting for RSLs and funders on matters such as bond funding, joint ventures and environmental regulations. His longstanding sector expertise also enables him to advise on the creation of new nationwide policy. "Len Freedman has unsurpassed knowledge." "He's a very clever man and is a very well-known and well-regarded figure in the market."
Andrew Cowan is the firm's managing partner and head of the litigation team. He acts on behalf of housing associations, advising on day-to-day matters including housing management challenges and risk mitigation. He is particularly noted for his extensive litigation experience in the context of social housing. "Andrew has provided an exceptional level of support in some very challenging circumstances." "He carries his leadership role with humility, professionalism and a mutual respect for his clients."
Alison Brynes offers notable transactional expertise in the social housing space. She advises on matters such as land acquisitions, construction contracts and site redevelopments, as well as overseeing large-scale stock transfers. "Alison is an excellent speaker who gives clear and concise information." "She has exceptional knowledge and experience of the sector we work in." "Alison Brynes always provides excellent advice and service." "She has a passion for what she does and her customers."
Jim Bauld is well regarded for his extensive litigation experience in the context of social housing. He regularly represents clients in a range of matters including anti-social behaviour and evictions. "Jim is always very responsive and direct with the best course of action when approached for advice." "Jim Bauld has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the social housing sector." "He provides excellent support on complex issues and brings a seasoned eye to matters." "Jim is a key leader within the firm and the housing management field in particular." "His knowledge and experience in our sector is second to none."
Lauren Little has a recognised practice representing RSLs in transactional, regulatory and financing matters in the housing sector. "Lauren's experience, knowledge, guidance and support in all matters has been exceptional." "Lauren is never scared of taking on tough subjects and providing calm and considered advice." "I always feel less at risk having engaged with Lauren." "Her input was vital in the success of our negotiations."
Alastair McKendrick represents a range of housing providers in a variety of property matters, including site acquisitions and advising on site developments. He also heads the firm's litigation team and undertakes housing management disputes. "Alastair is always vey responsive, knowledgeable of the housing issues we raise and easy to speak with." "Alastair has an excellent understanding of the housing sector." "Alastair is extremely knowledgeable and always has the answers to our questions." "Alastair is very aware of the current pressures social landlords are navigating, including the political landscape."
Christine Stuart advises housing associations among other clients on shared ownership projects. She has additional expertise in advising on a range of transactional matters including stock transfer, sales and securities-related matters. "Christine provides a very tailored and personal service."