Jamie Willsdon

Picture the scene – a new development is ready for sale and one of the first prospective buyers turns up in the evening to view.  It’s an impressive sight; everything is brand new and the areas around the common walkways and drive glitter with lights, bathing everything in a comforting and reassuring glow.   A well-appointed block of flats has been completed and is ready for new residents. But come back a year later, and things are very different.  Many of the lights have stopped working, giving the outsi

Every year more blocks appear on the skyline. Apartment living is the future for many, especially Londoners, and the quality of design has lead to some really exciting living spaces. However, isn’t it time to overhaul both strategies and attitudes towards block lighting. It may sound like a minor aspect, in the architectural game plan, until something goes wrong, then block managers have to deal with the consequences. Time and again poorly specified fittings and controls installed by developers fail far t

QUESTION   My landlord has placed an outside light 4 ft from my bedroom window, and it is so bright and intrusive. There are 2 lights there one opposite each other. It is only the one that shines directly into my bedroom that is difficult. It is the only one light out of 6 that is intrusive. The remaining omit sufficient light to make the area safe in the dark. Can I quote the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 re Statutory nuisance lighting. I live on a Thames mooring of 6 boats and 4 have bou

Lighting maintenance is a way to cut costs. It also protects assets and helps remain compliant. It’s an integral part of any block manager’s modus operandi and can make a profound difference to block lighting in particular. It’s obvious that regular checks, attending to problems as they arise and generally ensuring good housekeeping is uppermost on any ‘to do’ list, and is essential to proactive management. If a block manager has reliable teams, the job of maintaining any premises becomes a whole lot ea