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In conjunction with News on the Block, Brady Solicitors commissioned an independent market research company to undertake an in-depth telephone survey into the changing pressures, opportunities and challenges faced by the property management industry. Over 100 of you took part during November 2011 and in this report, Brady Solicitors’ Clare Brady shares with you the highlights of these interviews. Regulation is a popular topic in the property management press, with many calling for a clearer regulatory

Members of the House of Lords have called for the law commission to simplify leasehold law. Baroness, Lady Butler-Sloss and Baroness Williams urged the Conservative Minister, Baroness Hanham to consider the Government’s position during a Parliamentary debate on consolidating all landlord and tenant legislation. Baroness Hanham admitted that, “... leasehold law in particular can be complex and people find it difficult to understand” but refused to commit to a Law Commission consultation. The Federation of

Unfortunately, many leaseholders undertake works within their flat which are often in breach of the terms of their leases. One common breach, is the removal of carpets and installation of wooden floors. In accordance with the terms of many leases, carpets must be laid in all areas except for the kitchen and bathroom, unless otherwise approved by the landlord. If no such consent has been granted, you could be currently in Breach of Lease. The implications of being in Breach of Lease are serious and can

Frognal estate comprises five blocks totalling 54 flats. By 2009 it had been neglected for decades, there was a long history of multiple litigation between the landlord and the lessees, the lifts had been out of service for years, Enforcement Notices had been served by the Local Authority and insurance cover for water damage had been withdrawn. The Residents’ Association (FERA) applied to the LVT for a Manager to be appointed, the landlord agreed, the Tribunal approved a Management Plan, and a Specificat

The Tenant Services Authority has given its final approval for the £1.3 billion merger between Chester & District Housing Trust and Cosmopolitan Housing Group. This has created a new group of nearly 14,000 homes across Cheshire, Merseyside and the North West, placing it among the 10 largest housing groups in the region. The new Group says the merger will create improved opportunities for leasehold residents.

Award winning chartered surveyors Caxtons, one of the largest property practices in the South East, launched a fresh corporate image for the New Year and in addition, appointed a new Chairman. The company, founded in 1990, and with offices throughout the region, has spent the past six months refreshing its traditional image. This more modern, brighter image echoes the changing face of the company and its fresh, new outlook, according to Marketing Director David Gurton. Despite the difficult economic

At the recent Leasehold Forum Conference, James Wyatt, Head of Valuation at John D Wood was forthright in giving a personal view that the basis on which deferment rates were set in the leading Sportelli decision is incorrect and that there is no reason to assume continual upward growth in the property market. He explained that when property prices are analysed over a longer period, rather than from 1952 which is the date traditionally used, it is clear to see that prices do fall. Whilst a departure from t

A new fund is being launched to help leaseholders, (particularly those who may be vulnerable and/or elderly), afford legal assistance to advise them on matters such as the LVT process, escalating service charges and exit fees.  Called LKPaid, the fund is the brainchild of Melissa Briggs who rose to prominence for her campaigning work leading CarlEX and its demands for leasehold reform.  "Having exposed malpractice in the property management industry over the past few years, I set up the Leasehold Knowledg

Congratulations to the winners of the PMAs 2011-12 Prize Draw!   Zoe Harris won the 5-STAR AFTERNOON TEA Afternoon tea at one of London's top hotels is a luxurious and extravagant affair. It is not just tea and cake, but a lavish setting with exquisite service and the finest china, often accompanied by live music. Traditional afternoon tea – an absolute delight! Location: London                   Richard Vause won the RALLY DRIVING THRILL AT SILVERSTONE

BLOCK INSURE NEWS ON THE BLOCK PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AWARDS 2011-12 WINNERS ANNOUNCED       The list of Finalists and winners are:   London Property Management Company of the Year sponsored by Deverell Smith Recruitment       Finalists Crabtree Property Management; Granville & Company; London Residential Management;  Trust Property Management; Rendall & Rittner; HML Shaw; Farrar Property Management   Highly Commended Granville & Company; Rendall & Rittner; Farrar Property Mana

BLOCK INSURE NEWS ON THE BLOCK PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AWARDS 2011-12   The Finalists are:   London Property Management Company of the Year sponsored by Deverell Smith Recruitment     Crabtree PM Limited; Granville & Company; London Residential Management;  Trust Property Management; Rendall & Rittner; HML Shaw; Farrar Property Management   Regional Property Management Company of the Yearsponsored by Deacon         Essex Properties, Premier Estates; Warwick Estates Property Ma

Your essential guide to block insurance.  Britains best insurance brokers offer some advice in our comprehensive pull out and keep supplement about the blocks of flats insurance market.  Some of this features articles include:  Getting the best from your insurance broker  How to deal with claims effectively  8 ways to spot under insurance in your blocks of flats  Subscribers, log in to view your digitial copy.  Or click here to download the pdf