Service Charges
Why provisions should be made for pest control in your service charge budget.

One of the problems of living in a managed block is that not everybody has reason or time to go looking in the bowels of the property for problems. Even if they did, they may not have the skills to be able to recognise the signs of low level pest activity.

Right to Manage
Are you at risk from the rogue property managers?

In most blocks the landlord instructs the managing agents. This lack of accountability by the paying leaseholders gives rogue agents the scope to exploit the situation through such misfeasance as (a) demanding service charges for substandard or non-existent services/works (b) imposing high administration charges and (c) requiring on account payments for works without carrying them out.

Buying your Freehold
What if you get cold feet?

In a collective claim, a Participation Agreement.  will set out your obligations
with the rest of the group bringing the claim.  It will usually require regular payments throughout the continuance of the claim to fund the costs and also contribute a share of the purchase price (when ascertained).  The Agreement should provide that you will not do anything to invalidate the claim. If you withdraw then you accept responsibility for your share of the costs.

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Paul Marsh says now is the time for flat owners to consider lease extensions.

People

If you have news of any promotions, retirements, awards or acknowledgements from within your company, we want to hear from you. Send an email to editor@newsontheblock.com with “People” in the subject line.

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Cockroaches in blocks of flats

David Channon says persistent pests can be a problem.

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Whilst other markets are struggling there’s plenty to be positive about in block management, says Stuart Smith.

Future flat policy on agenda at lease conference

It has already been seven years since the last piece of major legislation affecting flats hit the statute books in the form of the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002.