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What the Autumn Statement means for employers

Last week, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced the ‘Autumn Statement for growth’ which includes new measures that will be introduced in the new year. Some of the proposed changes will affect employment law and the workplace, as the Chancellor hopes it will increase the number of people in work in the UK.

How does the autumn statement affect my organisation?

The changes announced included the following:

  • From 6 January 2024, the National Insurance rate for employees will be cut from 12% to 10%. It is predicted that this will help about 27 million people in the UK. The Chancellor announced that this reform alone will lead to a further 94,000 people in full-time employment.
  • From April 2024, the National Living Wage will be increased to £11.44 per hour. It was also announced that the National Living Wage will be extended to apply to 21- and 22-year-olds for the first time, who are at the moment only guaranteed the lower National Minimum Wage.
  • From April 2024, self-employed workers will see the abolishment of Class 2 National Insurance charges, and Class 4 charges will be cut by 1%. These changes will likely save an average £350 a year for those who are self-employed.
  • A new right will enable employees to request new employers to pay into an existing pension pot, changing the current practice of having to sign up to a different pension scheme that is run by their new employer.

What should employers do?

If you are unsure how these amendments will affect you as an employer, make sure to seek professional legal advice to avoid being caught out. Employers should take note of these changes and keep an eye out for further guidance that is awaited regarding workplace pension schemes. In particular, employers should review the impact of the National Living Wage changes on their business. This change could result in significant cost increases for lots of employers (particularly those who employ a considerable number of low-paid staff.

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What Are The Benefits Of Porcelain Tiles?

Porcelain stands out as the leading option when it comes to choosing the ideal bathroom tiles because of its amazing attributes and numerous advantages. Porcelain tiles, which are renowned for their dependability, adaptability, and aesthetic appeal, are now a preferred option for both homeowners and interior designers. 

However, remember to always get a trusted installer to do the job, such as Tile and Bath Co

We will discuss the many benefits of utilising porcelain tiles in your bathroom in this post, highlighting why they are a great investment for both aesthetics and utility.

 

Porcelain Tiles – What Are They?

Porcelain tiles are basically solid clay floor covering that is burned at a greater temperature than ceramic tiles. Clay is combined with other organic ingredients to create porcelain tile, which is then heated in a furnace.

It is preferred for big rooms or projects where you desire a more streamlined, polished, or consistent appearance because of its very uniform structure and impermeable qualities.

Porcelain tile is often heavier than ceramic tile, which is usually the same thickness. Another reason why more and more people choose porcelain tile over ceramic tile is that porcelain tiles come in a wider variety of forms and designs.

 

What Are The Advantages Of Porcelain Tiles?

It Is Very Durable

The exceptional durability of porcelain tiles is one of its main advantages. A special manufacturing method gives porcelain, a type of ceramic tile, its outstanding resistance to wear, moisture, and stains. 

High temperatures are used throughout the firing process to create a solid, durable material that can endure strong foot activity as well as knocks and scratches. Porcelain tiles are perfect for high-moisture places like bathrooms where water exposure and regular use are common because of their exceptional durability.

There are several benefits to buying porcelain tile, but two, in particular, stand out: it is highly resilient and requires little maintenance. The flooring is very impossible to harm, and if required, it is replaceable piece by piece.

 

It Is Resistant To Moisture

The importance of selecting tiles is especially obvious because bathrooms are prone to water spills, humidity, and moisture. Porcelain tiles are very resistant to water damage because of their low water absorption rate. 

They are a great option for bathroom walls, floors, and even shower stalls because of this nature. Porcelain tiles act as a water-resistant barrier, avoiding problems like warping, mould growth, and mildew, which may be harmful to the structural integrity of your bathroom.

Ceramic tile can break due to moisture problems, which is a big problem for homes in colder or more unpredictable regions. Because of the moisture and extremely low temperatures, those tiles will break. Porcelain tiles have a considerably lesser chance of occurring since they are more homogeneous, thick, and porous than other types of tiles.

 

It Is Flexible In Design

Porcelain tiles provide a wide variety of design options, enabling you to construct a bathroom that matches your own tastes and sense of style. They come in a huge selection of shades, designs, textures, and finishes, from modern and stylish to rustic and traditional. Porcelain tiles may meet your design needs, whether you like an elegant, monochromatic aesthetic or more complex mosaic designs. 

Additionally, they may replicate the look of organic materials like marble or wood, offering a sophisticated aesthetic without the corresponding upkeep needs.

 

It Is Low In Maintenance

It is crucial to keep bathrooms clean and hygienic, and porcelain tiles make this task simple. These tiles are non-porous and stain-resistant, making spills and splashes simple to wash away. Simple cleaning efforts like sweeping, mopping, or applying a light cleaner are used for routine cleaning. 

Porcelain does not require sealing, which will ultimately save you time and work compared to certain other tile materials. Additionally, you can keep a spotless bathroom without sacrificing the tiles’ quality or beauty because of their resilience to chemicals and aggressive cleaning solutions.

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What Are Modular Buildings? What Are The Advantages?

Recently, the discussion about modular buildings is getting more attention than ever, as they have brought over innovative advantages, especially compared to conventional constructions. 

Modular buildings are definitely one of the new technologies that are stirring up the real estate market, as its advantages such as lower costs and quick turnover time is very attractive. Modular building providers such as Insite Portable Accommodation provides temporary buildings or office services using modular buildings. Many companies have adopted a temporary office after seeing the benefits it brings.

 

Modular Construction: A Brief Introduction

Many people confuse themselves with the term “modular construction” or modular buildings”. Essentially, modular buildings are buildings created with the modular construction method. However, the correct way to see it, is that modular construction is a construction method that uses pre-constructed containers and compartments that are made in a factory, which will be puzzled together on site. 

The thing about modular construction is that it cuts down on construction time, as each compartment or container can be made simultaneously. Once they are manufactured, they can be delivered to the construction site to be assembled.

While this might be a new thing for most people, it has been used by many industries for the past decade. It has just recently set foot into the commercial and household radar, where these pre-made containers that are fully furnished are being assembled on-site. 

 

Advantages Of Modular Buildings

Here are some advantages of Modular Buildings: 

 

Cost Effectiveness of Modular Construction

The cost of construction is definitely the number one factor in the real estate industry. Modular construction has given the ability to cut down big costs since each container or compartment is pre-constructed. 

Pre-construction has allowed improved efficiency such as lower wastage and cheaper labour costs, as workers do not need to work according to the construction progress and they are working within a controlled environment. 

Improved Construction Speed

Modular buildings are made out of various compartments, which are assembled on-site. It means that each compartment can be manufactured simultaneously, cutting the construction time by a ton when compared to traditional construction. 

After the pre-construction, these compartments are delivered to the official construction site to be assembled. The assembling process is like piecing puzzles together, which is relatively much quicker. This is also why modular buildings are very popular among temporary accommodations or offices, as they are much quicker.

Another factor that speeds up the construction process is that weather conditions do not matter anymore! Traditionally, constructions are delayed as construction sites might be hazardous during bad weathers, but modular construction allows construction to happen indoors, which has mitigated this issue, bringing both speed and safety to the table.

 

Better Quality

In contrast to contrary belief, modular buildings are actually safer than traditional construction methods. As modular buildings are manufactured in a controlled environment, it means that efforts for quality control can be better implemented. Besides, there are fewer hazards to look out for in a controlled environment, making the process much safer and more effective.

 

Improved Flexibility

Need some temporary solutions? Modular buildings are for you! Modular buildings are flexible in nature due to their construction within a controlled environment, creating a bigger space for customization. 

If you are a business that is growing in numbers and is in need of a bigger space, just get extensions or new compartments and you are ready to go! Even if you need to move to a new place, just get your compartments delivered to the new location and you’re all good to go! 

 

Conclusion

If you’re a versatile business that needs a flexible working space, look no further than modular buildings. Modular buildings are much more flexible, safer and of better quality than traditional buildings, which gives you peace of mind when you’re working! 

 

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Here Are Some Questions To Ask When You’re Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

Did you know, a crucial factor of a successful lawsuit or recovery is getting the right lawyer to represent you? However, the “right” lawyer is usually expensive, and individuals or companies with bigger resources will be able to hire them. 

As a victim, it’s normal to be lost when looking for the right lawyer, which is why we wrote this article. We want you to find the right lawyer, while also keeping yourself away from the bad ones. We believe you deserve to get the proper compensation for your loss, which is why finding a good law firm such as Graham Evans and Partners Solicitors is very important. 

With that said, you should ask some important questions before hiring a lawyer, as their answers will show signs of their competencies and experience levels. Here are some questions you should ask before hiring a personal injury lawyer: 

What Are Your Past Experiences?

This question will prompt your lawyer to share their previous experiences on how they handled their cases. This will provide a good insight into your lawyer’s style and experience, which you can put into consideration. A good lawyer with experience handling cases similar to yours has a better understanding of the legal process and the right steps to take to win. They will also know what is the price or benchmark for “fair compensation”.

What is Your Fee Structure?

Here’s the part where it gets tricky. Ever heard of law firms providing “No fee if no recovery?” Let us give you some context. 

Law firms usually charge on a contingency fee basis, which means there will be no “service fee” charged if there are no recoveries made. However, here’s the catch: there will still be some charges in most cases to cover their working expenses, as some work needs to be carried out by third parties such as getting documents and filing fees. Of course, these are not a problem if your lawyer has successfully recovered, but it will pose as some misunderstanding if your lawyer did not win your case. 

To prevent confusion, we’d recommend you find a lawyer with a fixed fee structure that requires you to pay a fixed amount of money instead of involving yourself in promotional schemes such as “No fee if no recovery”. A fixed fee structure ensures that you will not be financially burdened as the legal process goes on, while also paying the lawyer fairly for their work. 

What Are Your Certifications?

This question will give you information on whether your lawyer is certified by a regulatory body. A certified lawyer under a regulatory body such as SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) will need to meet specific requirements and undergo constant training to ensure that they are receiving the latest updates and changes within the legal world. 

Lawyers or solicitors that are certified are much more likely to be more trustable and reputable as they are regulated by a bigger entity. It ensures that the lawyers are performing in an ethical and professional matter. 

 

Bonus Tip: Remember To Check Their Reputation First!

It definitely doesn’t make sense to ask about the reputation of the lawyer from the lawyer himself or herself. Always be sceptical and check their reviews and experiences from past cases. 

There are a few ways you can check their credibility and reputation, one of them is by their ratings on legal directories or third-party websites such as Google Reviews. Lawyers with high average ratings generally have a better chance of getting the job done well than those with lower ratings. 

 

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, you should not compromise anything to get a good personal injury lawyer, as they have a higher chance of recovery, which is what anyone deserves. Remember to follow the steps closely to ensure that you find the right personal injury lawyer.

 

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Why It Pays To Use An Online Accountant

Online accountant has started to gain popularity recently due to the pandemic that has pushed the advancement of technology. Like it or not, online accountants are starting to replace traditional accountants, as in most cases, outsourcing provides more value than the traditional method of hiring in-house accountants. 

Of course, not all online accountants provide the same value, which is why hiring a reputable and trustable online accountant such as Accounted For is very essential in achieving business efficiency. 

What Is An Online Accountant?

Online accountants are accountants that are based online, meaning there will be no accountants running around your office. A proper online accountant is obligated to provide you with services that can competitively match any local accounting firm, or even better. 

With online accounting, you will be able to access your financials in real time as you are able to see the changes made remotely. You will usually be asked to download an app or software on your devices that allows you to access your accounts. You’ll need not worry about lacking of support as most of these accounting firms provide 24-7 helplines. 

One big advantage you’ll benefit from is the tech savvy-ness of online accountants as they are very familiar with technologies, helping your business to benefit from technologies such as accounting software. 

Benefits of Getting An Online Accountant

One of the biggest questions is this – Am I getting the same professionalism from an online accountant just like any traditional accountant? The answer is yes, but let us dive deeper into knowing why. 

 

Response Rate

So, does getting an online accountant means more ghosting issues? Well, fortunately, it’s the opposite. Most online accounting firms provide unlimited communications via various means such as video calls, phone, email and many more. Some committed firms even offer 24/7 communication! 

Education

Online accounting firms undoubtedly use many different types of software that might confuse business owners. However, to mitigate this issue, most online accounting firms will take the initiative to educate their clients on various matters. These accounting firms will usually provide a database for their clients to gain access to educational materials. 

 

Fee Structure

Online accountants are very aware of the competition between traditional and online accounting, which is why online accounting firms are taking initiative to present themselves as superior apart from traditional accountants. 

To do so, online accountants are more transparent in terms of their fee structure. As a firm that is going digital, earning the client’s trust is very important, which is why showing what you are charging is a good way to earn the trust. 

Looking For The Best Online Accountant

Finding a good online accountant is tricky as different online accounting firms have different specialities. However, there are a few basic facts you should look out for when looking for an online accounting firm:

 

Credentials

You might have heard this a thousand times, but we cannot emphasize enough the importance of getting an accredited online accountancy firm. No matter if it’s an online or a traditional accounting firm, they should be accredited by the ICAEW (Institute Of Chartered Accountants In England And Wales)

 

Have A Talk Before Committing

Every accounting firm has different communication styles, which is why you should have some sort of interaction with the firm before fully committing. Get to know the person in charge personally and have some understanding regarding how the firm works, then you’ll know if the accounting firm suits your business.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, we believe getting an online accountant is definitely more advantageous than getting a traditional accountant, as online accounting firms are putting more effort in gaining a competitive advantage. Overall, as the technology landscape advances, we believe getting an online accountant will do you more good than harm.

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Advantages of Bog Mats: Why Should You Get It?

You might have seen bog mats before, but you do not know they are bog mats! Bog mats are solid mats that are laid on the floor to protect the ground while being a temporary solution for vehicles to cross certain terrains such as sand or dirt. You’ll be surprised how solid these bog mats are, as they can withstand heavy machinery while also protecting the environment.

Bog mats are usually seen on construction sites, but they have residential uses as well. Getting advice from experts such as GJ Bog Mats will ensure you get the most protection out of your situation. 

 

Why Should I Use A Bog Mat?

Bog mats are essential for construction sites as they lay as a foundation to prevent transport difficulties due to the terrain. Bog Mats are big in size, allowing the force to spread across the mats, thus absorbing the force from directly damaging the ground.

Surprisingly, bog mats of this size are really easy to install, as you just lay them on the ground and clip them together!

 

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Bog Mat?

Elevated Safetiness

Pathway

Safetiness is the biggest reason why construction sites are willing to invest money into bog mats. The main use of bog mats is to create a temporary pathway for machinery to enter into construction sites while also keeping the pathway hazard-free, preventing accidents such as slips. 

 

Steady Platform

The ability of bog mats to be able to withstand heavy machinery can be improvised to be used for steady platforms. Construction equipment such as cranes or excavators require steady ground in order to work properly and safely, and this is where bog mats can come into play.

 

Prevent Toppling

When working on uneven ground, heavy machineries tend to topple over as the ground can be muddy or slippery, incurring a high cost if any accidents happen. Proper installation of bog mats prevents this machinery from toppling due to uneven ground or even sinking into the ground, as bog mats provide a stable surface for these machineries to travel back and forth to the construction site.

 

Provide Protection For Underground Utilities

Supply lines such as gas, water and electricity are installed underground as these supply lines are vulnerable and might pose a threat when damaged. Bog mats will prevent the construction works from damaging the supply lines as it prevents the ground from being damaged, allowing construction sites to conduct work without affecting the utilities’ supply. 

 

Conserve The Environment

Did you know bog mats actually help the environment? Bog mats are durable and wide, and it has the ability to absorb the force, preventing the ground from absorbing the full force of the heavy machinery. 

Proper use of bog mats will prevent major damage to the ground and also provide protection towards sensitive grounds such as futsal courts or hard surfaces that has the potential to crack or break.

 

Lower Maintenance Costs

By providing a proper pathway for heavy machinery to travel, it can significantly decrease particles such as dirt or mud from jamming the machine. The machinery will have a longer lifespan while also having lower maintenance costs, saving the business tons of money as repairs and maintenance for these machineries can be very costly. 

 

Should I Rent Or Buy The Bog Mats?

Depending on the usage and how frequently you are using it, you may be able to choose to hire or purchase the bog mats. If you are working on a per-project basis, hiring bog mats might be a wise choice as you are unsure if you’ll be needing it again. However, if you are in the construction industry, we highly suggest purchasing one as it can last for a very long time with proper maintenance.

 

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Duties of an executor

Duties of an executor and what happens when those duties are breached

When someone makes a will, they will usually specify the person they want to administer their estate, known as an executor.
Here, Darwin Gray explain the duties of an executor and how a beneficiary can hold the executor to account.

Executors have a number of important duties and responsibilities when it comes to managing the estate of someone who has passed away, including:

  • Collecting in and managing the assets of the estate: The executor is responsible for identifying all of the assets that belong to the estate, including any bank accounts, investments, property, and personal possessions such as vehicles and jewellery. They must also manage these assets, ensuring that they are protected and preserved for the benefit of the beneficiaries.
  • Paying the liabilities of the estate: The executor is responsible for paying any outstanding debts or taxes that are owed by the estate at the date of death. Typically this includes credit card bills, mortgages, loans, council tax and other debts. The executor must also file any necessary tax returns and pay any inheritance tax owed by the estate.
  • Distribute the estate’s assets: The executor is responsible for distributing the assets of the estate in accordance with the provisions of the will or, if there is no will, according to the intestacy rules. This may involve selling assets for cash, transferring ownership of assets, or making cash payments to the beneficiaries out of bank and savings accounts.
  • Keeping estate accounts: The executor is responsible for keeping records of the estate’s assets, debts, and distributions, known as estate accounts. These show how the estate’s assets have been managed, how the estate’s debts and taxes have been paid, and what is left to do to finalise the administration of the estate. Beneficiaries can ask to see copies of the estate accounts, and if the executors unreasonably refuse to disclose them the beneficiaries can issue legal proceedings against them.

If an executor breaches their duties, it can have serious consequences for the estate, the beneficiaries and for the executors themselves. By way of example, if the executor mismanages the assets of the estate, it could cause the estate to suffer financial losses, which will impact on what is distributed to the beneficiaries. If the executor fails to pay the estate’s liabilities, it could result in additional costs or penalties for the estate, again impacting on what is available to distribute to the beneficiaries. Executors have a personal liability for any losses suffered by the estate as a result of their breach of duties, and the financial consequences to the executor can be significant.

If a beneficiary believes that an executor has breached their duties, there are steps they can take to try and resolve the issues:

  • Talk to the executor: often, the executor is not aware that they are breaching their duties and is doing so completely innocently, so may be willing to correct their mistake if it is brought to their attention. Explaining the concerns to the executor to see if they are willing to take steps to address the situation is usually enough to get things back on track;
  • Seek legal advice: if the executor does not agree that he or she is breaching their duties, it is sensible to seek legal advice. A solicitor with experience in wills and probate disputes can assess the situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.
  • Try to reach a settlement: a solicitor experienced in these claims will be skilled at negotiating to try and reach an agreement between executors and beneficiaries. Engaging in correspondence, conducting a meeting between the parties and mediating the matter may all assist in resolving the matter without the need to go to Court.
  • Issue a High Court claim: If the executor is not prepared to correct their breaches, the beneficiaries may need to issue court proceedings. If the Court agrees that the executor has breached their duties, and that if they remain in post it may adversely affect the estate, the beneficiaries or the proper administration of the estate, the Judge is likely to remove the executor from their role and order that a substitute – usually a professional like a solicitor – takes their place.

Whether you are an executor or a beneficiary, if there is a suggestion or belief that the executor is in breach of their duties, the sooner the issue gets resolved, the better, as the potential financial consequences for the estate, the beneficiaries, and the executor for an executor acting in breach of their duties can be severe.

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What Are The Benefits Of Used Forklifts

Usually, a business owner would have a misconception about used forklifts, thinking that they would not be worth it just because it has been used. That could not be more wrong!

Just think of it as a used car. The reason behind the purchase of a used car is that it still works! A used forklift might not have the most advanced technology, but it definitely is cost-efficient and gets the job done.

However, getting a good used forklift will not be easy. Look for a reputable dealer such as Gwent Mechanical Handling to ensure you are getting the best out of your investment!

Reasons Why Used Forklifts Are Much Better

Cost Efficient Option

There’s a major difference between cost-efficient and low-cost. Cost efficiency is where you get more value out of what you pay for, which is what we see in a used forklift.

Forklifts will depreciate in value over time, which means their second-hand price will eventually get lower. However, some forklift trucks are used at a low usage and are well maintained, which makes some of the used forklift trucks actually reliable forklifts!

And, the best thing is, it is much cheaper than a brand new forklift and will also bring similar major benefits to the business

Waiting Period

One of the biggest downsides of getting new forklifts is the time you need to wait for them to manufacture. This means that your business will not be able to use the brand-new forklift right after ordering it.

This might be a hassle because you might need it straight away. Buying a used forklift has virtually no waiting time as the product is there waiting for your purchase.

Variety

In the electric forklift market, used forklift trucks have a bigger market as compared to new forklift trucks. There are more choices and brands available out there that is well maintained that have no issue competing with brand-new forklifts.

Low Maintenance

Generally, used forklift trucks that have a proven track record will require no more maintenance than a new forklift truck. Just like any reliable forklift, it is very energy-efficient and cost-efficient, which is what every business is looking for.

A used forklift truck requires a lesser technical knowledge and has more spare parts available, which makes it very competitive in this market.

Training Or Educational Costs

Used Forklifts mostly have the same technology, which means that you will not need to spend more time educating or training your employees to use a totally new technology.

So, if you bought a refurbished used forklift truck, you will be able to start using it without too much hassle as the controls are somewhat similar.

Environmentally Sustainable

This should be quite self-explanatory. When you purchase refurbished goods, you are essentially discouraging the manufacture of new electric forklifts. Purchasing second-hand forklifts reduce carbon footprint which makes the choice environmentally friendly.

Why Is Getting A Second-Hand Forklift A Right choice?

There are various types of forklifts such as manual forklifts or electric forklifts, and their usage is pretty much the same, which is to fulfill material handling. stacking crates and etc. If that can be fulfilled by a second-hand forklift, why not cut down on the cost and get one?

Conclusion

In conclusion, we believe that a second-hand forklift will benefit the business at a huge scale in terms of investments.

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Online Conveyancing: Is It Safe?

As technology advances, there are many firms who started to adopt online businesses, including online conveyancing firms of course. The Online conveyancing process generally still remains, the only difference is the communication method which is through virtual meetings such as Google Meet, Skype, or general messaging.

However, some people are thinking – Is online conveyancing safe?” It is a reasonable concern given that the conveyancing process is not a small transaction. Choosing good online conveyancing firms such as My Conveyancing Specialist and taking basic precautions can increase the chances of you having a better experience.

Online Conveyancing: Making Conveyancing a Borderless Businesses

Online conveyancing is basically doing all the work of a conveyancing solicitor without physical proximity, which means it is not bounded geographically anymore. This can be seen as a threat to local conveyancing firms as the business was used to taking a hyperlocal approach as the only difference is the face-to-face meeting.

For online conveyancing, all of the legal aspects of the property transactions are handled by the solicitor, and all of the forms that need to be filled will be given via email or other online tools. The conveyancing solicitors will do all the work in the background such as property sales, property search, and drafting the contracts.

Once you are happy with your sale contract, your conveyancer online will help you exchange contracts with the buyer, and the property is yours! However, these are very convenient for basic transactions only. If it involves more sophisticated matters such as chains.

What Defines a Good Online Conveyancing Firm?

Good online conveyancing firms have one common trait – reliability. People look for a reliable conveyancing firm because the money involved is a lot. Thankfully, there are regulatory bodies that help us define reliable conveyancing firm.

So here are a few things you need to check out before engaging in any conveyancing firms.

Are They Accredited Firms?

If the conveyancing firm you engaged has been accredited by Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme, give yourself a pat on the back.

This scheme makes it compulsory for law firms offering conveyancing to follow a set of guidelines that ensures clients are protected and set the minimum professional standards for the industry. Checking your law firms beforehand is one of the best practices to ensure safe online conveyancing.

Are They Listed and Licensed?

If you are doing online conveyancing, you need to ensure the conveyancing solicitor is certified and proven to be legitimate. Thankfully, you can check whether they are licensed via the Law Society.

Here Are The Ways To Avoiding Conveyancing Fraud

Online conveyancing can be very convenient, but fraudulent cases are starting to pop out. These fraudsters pretend to provide online conveyancing services and asking you make a payment to a specific bank account. This method is usually done through emails.

As technology advances, these fraudulent emails can be look very genuine as they might be able to gain access to your personal information or even the email of your online conveyancer . Never be too careful about online impersonations, here are some ways to prevent yourself from being phished:

Call your online conveyancer

Make it a habit to call your online conveyancing solicitors when you are notified of a transaction online. Your online conveyancers will be able to tell you if they have requested the payment.

Send your money in separate transactions

Split the amount into 2 transactions, pay 10% of the full amount in tthe first transaction as a test. Call up your online conveyancers to make sure they have received it, then proceed to pay the remaining balance.

Conclusion

The one downside for us would be: As compared to standard conveyancing firms, online conveyancing solicitors don’t have a comprehensive local knowledge

The one piece of advice for online conveyancing would be – Never be too careful. Online conveyancing is certainly a good convenient service, however, given the nature of the conveyancing process, the money involved is very big. Online conveyancers should also look for solutions to increase security to make online conveyancing a much more pleasurable experience.

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Why Should I Hire a Locksmith?

You might be thinking – ” Why should I hire a professional locksmith when I can do it myself?”

That is certainly one of the ways to go, but there are definitely some benefits of hiring a locksmith. If not, why are people still hiring professional locksmiths anyway?

In many cases, DIY solutions can cause long-term damage to your locks, as a normal person wouldn’t have the appropriate equipment lying around. A certified locksmith that conducts specialized services will ensure proper methods and the right tools are used to open a locked door.

Tony’s Locksmith in Cardiff is one of the prime examples of a great locksmith that provides full range of locksmith services.

a person locked from outside

Why Should I Hire a Professional Locksmith?

1. They have the knowledge and expertise

A professional locksmith is equipped with extensive knowledge of opening door locks – certainly more than you do. DIY solutions are very time-consuming as they can get technical really quickly and cause more confusion than good.

A qualified locksmith will be able to open door locks of residential and commercial properties without damaging the lock itself (as some locks can be very costly).

If you have a broken key inside, many locksmiths offer key-cutting services to cut a new set of keys and a spare key.

2. They provide valuable advice for your home

By hiring a professional locksmith, you might get a full security system checkup or a security survey for your home. Usually, people will not know where are the security vulnerabilities in their homes, which will directly affect their safety.

“What does a locksmith service have to do with my security system?”

Many professional locksmith services have diversified from just merely repair locks and key replacements. Nowadays, most locksmiths also provide products such as electronic locks or CCTV cameras!

3. Reliable in Emergency Situations

Let’s imagine a scenario – your car keys are stuck in the door; or even worse, you are stuck inside a vehicle. In these scenarios, the locksmith service is most reliable when in a risky situation. A skilled locksmith will be able to open the vehicle door in no time !

Besides, after the incident, you would want to replace your car keys. By hiring professional locksmith services, you will be able to get the replacement car keys in a short time as most of them produce the keys on the spot.

How Do I Find The Right locksmiths?

If you have finally decided to get a locksmith, there are a few factors to consider and determine whether the locksmith is good for you.

Location

When you’re hiring a professional locksmith, please remember to check where they are located!

Local professional locksmiths will be able to reach your physical location quicker, especially when you are in an emergency.

Pricing and Quality

Many locksmiths charge a premium, yet are not delivering the quality you deserve.

The most important aspect is to find a fine balance between money and quality. Check the locksmith’s reviews from third-party websites and determine the right locksmith for the job.

Certification and Licensing

Locksmiths in the UK and Wales do not need a mandatory license, yet they are able to obtain a certification from the Master Locksmiths Association voluntarily.

Although it’s not a deal breaker, only a professional locksmith are able to obtain the certification, which shows that they are highly trained.

Conclusion

So is it worth it to hire a locksmith? Of course, it is! With the condition that the locksmiths are professional and provide good assistance. A good example of a professional locksmith would be Tony’s Locksmith in Cardiff.

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