The bill proposes new rules for flats and tenements

The Scottish Executive says that the Tenements Bill, which will be debated on Thursday, would make it easier to repair the country's 800,000 flats.

Ministers argue that home owners should have the power to maintain properties without any interference.

At present, repairs can only be carried out if the full consent of neighbours is granted - leaving them open to veto.

Management scheme

The key changes the bill seeks to introduce include a mandatory management scheme to set out the basic framework for maintenance of every tenement.

This means if title deeds do not specify how the cost of maintenance is to be divided, a tenement management scheme will apportion the costs between the owners.

It also contains relevant rules on a number of other aspects of tenement management, including ensuring emergency access for repair work and compulsory insurance.

The bill will ensure a fairer deal for home owners in enabling them to carry out repairs and maintenance with majority consent Mary Mulligan Deputy minister for communities

Deputy minister for communities Mary Mulligan said: "The Tenements Bill will modernise a system of property law which is outdated and old-fashioned, and replace it with one which is modern, clear and just.

"At the moment, all owners in a tenement must agree before repairs can be carried out, unless their title deeds say otherwise.

"This means a minority who refuse to co-operate can scupper vital maintenance work.

"The bill will ensure a fairer deal for home owners in enabling them to carry out repairs and maintenance with majority consent.

"Everyone will then be liable for repair bills, ending frustration and delay and ensuring common areas are in a good condition.

The bill has been applauded by local authorities group Cosla, which said the legislation is "based on common sense".

Housing spokesman Councillor Douglas Reid said: "We particularly support the legal framework for the management of tenements, which encourages owners to have an effective role in property maintenance.