Repair works have been completed on two blocks of flats in Muiryhall Street and Dunbeth Road, Coatbridge, thanks to a successful partnership.

The flats' owners, their factor and North Lanarkshire Council, came together to use legislation, to improve the appearance and durability of the properties.

The council assisted the 48 owners and their factor through the use of 'missing share' legislation. This legislation means that if the majority of owners in a block want to carry out necessary works to their properties, they can apply to the council to pay the shares of any owners who did not wish to progress these works.

Throughout, the owners are in full control of the process and follow procedures to pay their share of the costs. The council then pays the missing share monies. Once the works are complete, the costs attributable to any refusing owners are placed as a charge on their title deeds by the council. This debt, which attracts interest, can be repaid by the owner at any time or when they decide to sell their property.


David Provan, Built Environment Manager with North Lanarkshire Council, said: "We're delighted to have been able to help the owners and their factor make such a difference to these homes. Despite having 13 possible missing shares to pay at the start of the project, we only had to secure debts on the title deeds of much lower numbers by the end of the process.

"The legislation clearly helps support owners living in flats who understand their responsibilities with the upkeep of their properties."

The cost of the works was £230,000.

If owners are considering carrying out building works to their homes, such as re-roofing, or for owners living in flats who wish more information on 'missing shares' legislation and how this might help them maintain their properties, they can contact the council's Private Sector Solutions team on 01698 274179 or by clicking on related items.