Status of occupants of almshouses

What is the status of occupants of Almshouses? Darren Millis, Commercial Property Partner shares the recent court case to explain further.

A recent Court of Appeal case Watts v Stewart & Ors has allowed trustees of Almshouse (a dwelling provided by the parish, or a charity, for the use of the poor or needy in the neighbourhood) charities to breathe a little easier as it has confirmed that the occupants are licensees and not tenants. The distinction means that Almshouse charities do not have to deal with the occupants of their properties within the statutory framework implicit if the occupants had effective tenancies.

If you need further advise on this or anything in relation to this please contact Darren Millis on 01908 689319 or email dmillis@geoffreyleaver.com

Darren Millis | Partner