Q&A with a Trustee about Section 106 Unilateral Agreements

​Why have you chosen to put a Section 106 Unilateral Agreement on your property?
Essentially it is because I never wish the property to be used in the future as a second home, a holiday home or for Airbnb – I want it to be lived in always as a permanent residence to help maintain our local community.
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​Why does a property not being able to become a second home or holiday let mean so much to you?
I have been a Trustee of the Lakeland Housing Trust for the last three years. My family’s history in the Lakes goes back almost 400 years and I love the Lake District and its local communities. As a result of holiday homes, we are losing our infrastructure rapidly including local facilities like shops, schools, doctors’ surgeries which are closing. I want my property to stay as a permanent residence for local people to help keep our communities viable and thriving.
 
What would you like to see going forward?
It would be great to see more people placing the Agreement on their properties, if they can. It is easy to put in place and it will ensure that more homes remain available for those who want to live and work in our local communities. Once attached to a property, the Agreement is there in perpetuity and cannot be removed.
 
What was the process like?
It was very straightforward. The relevant documents are available from H&H Land & Estates or via the Lakeland Housing Trust website. I gave them to my solicitor and they did the rest! 
 
What were the costs?
The basic cost was around £450 including LDNPA and Land Registry fees. Solicitor fees were separate and these will vary dependant on which firm is used to complete the work.
 
What are the timescales?
The process is relatively quick. For more information on specific timelines, it is best to speak with a solicitor as there can be variations dependent on several factors.
 
Would you recommend putting a Section 106 Unilateral Agreement on a property to others?
Absolutely, if you are able to as a property owner – it is really worthwhile to maintain properties that have permanent residents in for our communities and local area; thereby reducing the future number of holiday cottages, second homes and Airbnb premises.