EQIA: Commercial fee review - plans reports

Scope

The Plans Reports Review, which is part of the Commercial Fee Review conducted by the Commercial Fee Working Group (CFWG). The proposal will introduce fees increase and a fast-track service.

Impact

Protected Characteristics

The changes are likely to impact customers, as fee increases may disproportionately affect groups with lower incomes. Evidence indicates that this is more likely to impact younger individuals, people with disabilities, and some ethnic minorities.

Fairer Scotland Duty and Island Communities Act

The assessment highlights that fee increases may disproportionately impact individuals facing socio-economic disadvantage and those in island communities, where average incomes are lower.

Consumer Duty Impact

As outlined for other duties, affordability could be a concern for certain groups. The introduction of a FastTrack service and clear communication about changes are positive steps to enhance consumer choice and information.

Mitigations

The price increase is vital to ensure product sustainability and that RoS achieves an overall break-even position. Evidence has been identified of income disparity in relation to specific groups and circumstances, so the potential for negative impact on these groups is acknowledged.

RoS has found no evidence that it will create a significant or disproportionately negative impact within the wider context and costs of a property transaction, so no modifications to the proposal are proposed.

It is recommended that RoS signposts to financial support (e.g. Citizens Advice, Money Helper, StepChange) where appropriate.