PART 6Private housing conditions

I191Repayment charges: recovery of repayable amount

1

In section 172 of the 2006 Act (repayment charges)—

a

in subsection (1)—

i

the word “and” immediately preceding paragraph (b) is repealed, and

ii

after paragraph (b), insert—

c

providing that the repayable amount is payable in the number of equal annual instalments and on the date in each year determined under subsection (3)(a),

d

providing that in default of such payment each instalment, together with any amount recoverable in respect of that instalment under subsection (6A), is to be separately recoverable as a debt, and

e

providing that if immediately after the final instalment falls due any balance of the repayable amount remains unpaid, that balance is immediately due for repayment and is recoverable as a debt.

b

for subsection (3), substitute—

3

The local authority must—

a

determine—

i

the number of equal annual instalments, being no fewer than 5 and no more than 30, in which the repayable amount is to be paid, and

ii

the date in each year on which the instalment becomes due, and

b

notify the owner of its determination under paragraph (a).

c

after subsection (4), insert—

4A

The owner of a property who is liable for the repayable amount does not, by virtue only of ceasing to be such an owner, cease to be liable for the repayable amount.

2

After section 172 of the 2006 Act, insert—

172ARepayment charge: appeals to the sheriff

1

A person aggrieved by a determination under section 172(3)(a)(i) may appeal to the sheriff.

2

On an appeal under this section the sheriff may make such order relating to the number of annual instalments as the sheriff thinks fit.

3

The decision of the sheriff on appeal under this section is final.