Well-known housing lawyer died over the weekend
Tributes have been paid to well-known housing lawyer Giles Peaker, who died over the weekend.
Peaker was a long-time partner at Anthony Gold Solicitors and founder and editor of the respected housing law website Nearly Legal.
Announcing his death on social media, Anthony Gold Solicitors said: “Giles was a leading lawyer, renowned for his expertise in all aspects of housing law. He advised and represented leaseholders and tenants on build defects, fire safety issues, repossession, poor housing conditions and homelessness, dedicating his career to helping those most in need.”
It added that Peaker worked to improve the rights of individuals to good housing and played a major part in drafting the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018.
Tributes have been left to Peaker on the LinkedIn social media platform website.
Aileen Evans, director of Church Housing Association and former president of the Chartered Institute of Housing, said: “This is awful, awful news. What a crushing loss. A wonderful man, may he rest in peace.
Matt Downie, chief executive of Crisis, said: “This is truly shocking and terrible news. I’m so sorry for all of his friends, family and colleagues. Over many years he has been a titan of legal representation, campaigning and the deepest knowledge put to good use. Words can hardly express what a loss his passing is.
Phill Warren, head of rehousing and homelessness at Basildon Borough Council, said: “His ability to break down complex legislation and caselaw and make it understandable and even funny, was unparalleled. Thanks to Giles I know that the Allotments Act 1950 gives every tenant the inalienable right to keep chickens and rabbits. I don’t think I would have learned that from anyone else.”
Bekah Ryder, research and insights manager at consultancy Altair, said: “Truly terrible news. My thoughts are with his colleagues, friends and family. His wit, wisdom and generosity in sharing his knowledge will be sorely missed.”
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