Nicola Sturgeon is to examine concerns about a new firm linked to a Kirkintilloch-based company that was struck off the property factor register.
Apex Property Factor was removed by the Scottish Government earlier this month for failing to meet minimum standards.
A related firm, Klean Kut, which has the same contact details and legal manager as Apex, is now offering similar services to clients.
After being asked about the row at Holyrood by Tory MSP Graham Simpson, the First Minister said: “I am more than happy to look at this case.”
Legislation passed by MSPs means it a criminal offence to operate as a property factor while unregistered and without “reasonable excuse”.
Apex, which was responsible for properties in Renfrew, Paisley, Cumbernauld, Motherwell, Dumbarton and Clydebank, was removed from the register last year.
An appeal failed and SNP Government Minister Kevin Stewart announced on January 20th that the firm had been struck off from the register.
Days before the Stewart announcement, householders received a “business as usual” letter from Apex legal manager Neil Cowan on the firm’s “ongoing” dispute with the Government.
He said: “Until the matter is resolved, we have set up an associate company to ensure continuity of maintenance services.”
He added: “Please see the enclosed letter from Klean Kut Ltd.”
One day after Stewart’s announcement, Klean Kut Ltd was incorporated as a company. It shares the same address and phone number as Apex and correspondence has been sent out in Cowan’s name.
Raising the issue at First Minister’s Questions, Simpson described it as an “appalling and outrageous” situation and added: “I know MSPs across this chamber have concerns.”
Sturgeon said it was “essential” to have a system that protects homeowners and asked Simpson to supply more details of the case.
Klean Kut and Apex Property Factor have been asked if they want to provide a comment.
