OUR readers are helping shape vital changes to the law governing factors.
OUR readers are helping shape vital changes to the law governing factors.
Patricia Ferguson, MSP for Maryhill, Glasgow is behind a Scottish Parliament Bill that would force factors to be more responsible to the homeowners they represent.
Thanks to the Evening Times' campaign, she says residents are making their voices heard.
A key element of the Bill, which is fully supported by the Evening Times, requires factors to be registered. Currently, they are unregistered, unlicensed and anyone can set up as one.
The Bill would also create an independent body to mediate between residents and factors in dispute, which should reduce the need for court action.
Public consultation on the proposals is continuing, but Ms Ferguson said: "I have been inundated with responses since your campaign started.
"I will be using them, as well as some cases highlighted in the paper over the last week, to help shape the final legislation.
"I have been shocked at the number of calls and e-mails I have received from all over west Scotland and beyond.
"Many people are experiencing horrendous problems with their factor and all too often it is the same type of issues and the same factors cropping up again and again."
Our campaign has highlighted some of the problems facing the 100,000 city homeowners thought to have a factor. These included excessive charges, poor workmanship, unexplained bills and even court action.
We also launched our own charter an 11-point agreement aimed at getting a fairer deal for all residents, to which we want every factor in Glasgow to endorse.
We have had a massive response from readers, and politicians from all political parties have backed the campaign.
Glasgow MSP Bob Doris today showed his support by tabling a Parliamentary Motion congratulating the paper for highlighting the problem.
Public consultation on Ms Ferguson's Bill ends on February 29. Anyone wishing to contribute can call her office on 0141 946 1300 or send an e-mail to: patricia.ferguson.
msp@scottishparliament.uk
