Ask from our Property Experts

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:

There is a very bad Mould Problem in the Flat, I called the Management Company and after some time they sent round a Damp Specialist who told me that there wasn't a problem at the flat, Do I have the right to have my own “Specialist round?

Yes you do. The problem if not an obvious roof or gutter leak may well be condensation, an advice leaflet is attached to help you.

Read more
Read by(24)

What is included in a homebuyers survey?

The inspection for a Homebuyer Survey includes an investigation of damp issues, rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation as well as timber defects such as over-stressed timbers and beetle infestation. A Homebuyer Survey does include a visual inspection of the s...

Read more
Read by(24)

Which organizations created the Unreasonable Behaviour policy?

The ARMA and IRPM developed the Unreasonable Behaviour Policy that aims to protect members from the unreasonable behaviour of clients.

Read more
Read by(24)

Court Appointed Manager–do I have the right to apply?

The right to apply for the appointment of a Court Appointed Manager depends on the specific laws and regulations governing the jurisdiction in which the property is located. Generally, the right to apply for a Court Appointed Manager is granted to individuals or part...

Read more
Read by(24)

What is the strategy for dealing with abusive and unreasonably persistent persons?

Termination of contact is the policy to deal with unreasonably persistent and rude persons.

Read more
Read by(24)

What changes are expected in EPC assessments in the UK by 2030?

By 2030, significant changes are anticipated, including the enforcement of the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP 11) for domestic properties in 2025, improvements in EPC methodology, and potential performance-based policies for large commercial and industrial buildi...

Read more
Read by(24)

We have 2 blocks on our estate - the leases provide that we collect service charges as a whole not block by block. At a previous AGM it was minuted that each block should have its own reserve towards its own repairs. This has been the convention since, but now this is being objected to by some and we need to understand how sound our decision was.

Sadly, you have fallen foul of the misconception that company resolutions can change leases. This is NEVER the case, so the minutes and intention is not enforceable in law an AGM should consider only the company accounts to be filed with companies house service charg...

Read more
Read by(24)

What are the biggest causes of C02 or carbon emissions in the UK, housing sector influences?

The rise in C02 totalled 424.5m tonnes between 2021 and 2022. The increases were largely driven by transport (up by 10 percent), public service (up by 6.3 percent), and private business sectors (up by 5.9 percent). The fourth largest increase was in the residential ...

Read more
Read by(24)

How will building biology make future homes more sustainable?

Building biology prioritises sustainability by encouraging eco-friendly practices and reducing environmental impact.

Read more
Read by(24)

What criticism has the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) faced regarding leasehold insurance irregularities?

The FCA has been strongly criticised by Insurance Business magazine for its lack of action in addressing leasehold insurance irregularities.

Read more
Read by(24)

How does the tenancy agreement impact my rights in repair matters?

The tenancy agreement is a vital legal document outlining responsibilities. Understanding and applying it effectively can ensure protecting and enforcing your rights, especially when landlords fail in their repair obligations.

Read more
Read by(24)

how does The case of Johnson v County Bideford [2012] UKUT 457 (LC) deal with the issue of service charges in leasehold properties and the rights and obligations of leaseholders and landlords?

The case of Johnson v County Bideford [2012] UKUT 457 (LC) is a notable legal case that deals with the issue of service charges in leasehold properties and the rights and obligations of leaseholders and landlords.In this case, the claimant, Mr. Johnson, was a leaseho...

Read more
Read by(24)

Establish the matter with relation to the proper construction and application of the lease terms and, in particular, the management and the service element charges that were to be produced to the lease holder.

Gell v 32 St John's Road (Eastbourne) Management Company Ltd [2021]SummaryGell v 32 St John's Road (Eastbourne) Management Company Ltd [2021] is predominantly developed along the lines of the singular issue that challenges the common sense of the service charges by t...

Read more
Read by(24)

What does a bank reconciliation entail?

A bank reconciliation is a routine check that should be carried out on any bank account to ensure that the cheques written leave and clear the account and that cash paid in is received by the bank. Monies that have not been received (i.e. perhaps lost in the banking ...

Read more
Read by(24)

When is an annual return required?

An annual return is required every year annually on the birthday of the company i.e. the anniversary of the date on which the company was incorporated.

Read more
Read by(24)

What are the risks of not doing Section 20 consultation properly?

You are at risk. However, since 2014 the Daejan vs Benson case suggests that a dispensation from consultation might be granted if it is just and reasonable to do so, eg, emergency communal heating failure in winter, else what you can recover from service charge paye...

Read more
Read by(24)

What announcement was made by the Housing Secretary recently?

Housing Secretary Michael Gove has reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the tenants. They have announced a series of measures that can provide relief to the affected tenants.

Read more
Read by(24)

The interpretation and enforcement of provisions regarding service charges under residential tenancies by pointing out the need for reasonableness and transparency in property management.

Akorita v 36 Gensing Road Limited [LRX/16/2008]SummaryThe cases are similar the Akorita v 36 Gensing Road Limited [LRX/16/2008] as they pose a cause against management and service charges in connection to a property. Mr. Akorita was the lease holder in the case and t...

Read more
Read by(24)

Who are most likely to be affected by the rise in energy bills?

The elders and those yet to settle into their jobs are among the most vulnerable. The elders, because their aging bodies cannot cope with the freezing temperature, and the recently employed ones because they will not be able to raise more money to pay the extra charges.

Read more
Read by(24)

How did coworking spaces become popular before the pandemic?

Before the pandemic, the GIG economy boosted the development of coworking spaces. Coworking spaces were popular among freelancers, professionals, and entrepreneurs who wanted to work in a professional environment for better networking opportunities.

Read more
Read by(24)

How have service charges for flats changed over time?

Since 2018, service charges for flats in England and Wales have increased by 51.7 percent. It is the first time the average annual service charge has exceeded 1,000 per year. However, in the past 12 months, the increase has been more modest at 8.0 percent, aligning w...

Read more
Read by(24)

What is the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service?

The Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service is a new government initiative in England and Wales offering free legal assistance to people at risk of losing their homes.

Read more
Read by(24)

How much can households save with heat pumps?

Depending on energy prices, households can save substantially annually by using heat pumps with smart electricity tariffs and removing gas meters. Actual savings vary based on the heat pump's efficiency, but optimising insulation and radiators can further reduce costs.

Read more
Read by(24)

What financial support is available for heat pump installations?

The UK government offers grants through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Energy Company Obligation (ECO), and Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan program, providing up to 7,500 grants and additional funding for eligible rural homes.

Read more
Read by(24)

What are the trading standards requirements for technology on words used for property listings?

The guidance was updated to enhance property-listing practices, making them more consumer-friendly and transparent, in line with the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. The terms formally defined are:Under Offer, Let Agreed, Let, New On The Mar...

Read more
Read by(23)

Which is the best Italian restaurant in Wembley Park?

Pulcinella Pizzeria promises great Italian food in Wembley Park.

Read more
Read by(23)

What measures should the UK government focus on to overcome the housing crisis?

The UK government needs to primarily focus on the supply side of the problem. This involves building more houses by providing available land and offering incentives for construction. Also, it is crucial to prioritise the quality and affordability of both new and exis...

Read more
Read by(23)

What is the new 2024 energy efficiency target for landlords in England and Wales?

By 2030, all privately rented properties in England and Wales must meet an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of Band C. This applies to private and social housing as part of the government's effort to improve energy efficiency.

Read more
Read by(23)

Why are rented homes becoming expensive in the UK?

The key reason for the increase in renting costs in the UK is the shortage of quality homes across the country. People who would ordinarily buy putting their plans on hold due to the cost of living crisis and rising mortgage rates, renting instead, and, the fact that...

Read more
Read by(23)

What strategies are being employed to address the skills shortage in the UK construction industry?

Efforts are being made to attract and retain young talent. Enhancing the industry's image among younger generations, implementing reskilling and upskilling initiatives, and bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technologies are key strategies.

Read more
Read by(23)

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:


There is a very bad Mould Problem in the Flat, I called the Management Company and after some time they sent round a Damp Specialist who told me that there wasn't a problem at the flat, Do I have the right to have my own “Specialist round?

Yes you do. The problem if not an obvious roof or gutter leak may well be condensation, an advice leaflet is attached to help you.


Read More

What is included in a homebuyers survey?

The inspection for a Homebuyer Survey includes an investigation of damp issues, rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation as well as timber defects such as over-stressed timbers and beetle infestation. A Homebuyer Survey does include a visual inspection of the s...


Read More

Which organizations created the Unreasonable Behaviour policy?

The ARMA and IRPM developed the Unreasonable Behaviour Policy that aims to protect members from the unreasonable behaviour of clients.


Read More

Court Appointed Manager–do I have the right to apply?

The right to apply for the appointment of a Court Appointed Manager depends on the specific laws and regulations governing the jurisdiction in which the property is located. Generally, the right to apply for a Court Appointed Manager is granted to individuals or part...


Read More

What is the strategy for dealing with abusive and unreasonably persistent persons?

Termination of contact is the policy to deal with unreasonably persistent and rude persons.


Read More

What changes are expected in EPC assessments in the UK by 2030?

By 2030, significant changes are anticipated, including the enforcement of the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP 11) for domestic properties in 2025, improvements in EPC methodology, and potential performance-based policies for large commercial and industrial buildi...


Read More

We have 2 blocks on our estate - the leases provide that we collect service charges as a whole not block by block. At a previous AGM it was minuted that each block should have its own reserve towards its own repairs. This has been the convention since, but now this is being objected to by some and we need to understand how sound our decision was.

Sadly, you have fallen foul of the misconception that company resolutions can change leases. This is NEVER the case, so the minutes and intention is not enforceable in law an AGM should consider only the company accounts to be filed with companies house service charg...


Read More

What are the biggest causes of C02 or carbon emissions in the UK, housing sector influences?

The rise in C02 totalled 424.5m tonnes between 2021 and 2022. The increases were largely driven by transport (up by 10 percent), public service (up by 6.3 percent), and private business sectors (up by 5.9 percent). The fourth largest increase was in the residential ...


Read More

How will building biology make future homes more sustainable?

Building biology prioritises sustainability by encouraging eco-friendly practices and reducing environmental impact.


Read More

What criticism has the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) faced regarding leasehold insurance irregularities?

The FCA has been strongly criticised by Insurance Business magazine for its lack of action in addressing leasehold insurance irregularities.


Read More

How does the tenancy agreement impact my rights in repair matters?

The tenancy agreement is a vital legal document outlining responsibilities. Understanding and applying it effectively can ensure protecting and enforcing your rights, especially when landlords fail in their repair obligations.


Read More

how does The case of Johnson v County Bideford [2012] UKUT 457 (LC) deal with the issue of service charges in leasehold properties and the rights and obligations of leaseholders and landlords?

The case of Johnson v County Bideford [2012] UKUT 457 (LC) is a notable legal case that deals with the issue of service charges in leasehold properties and the rights and obligations of leaseholders and landlords.In this case, the claimant, Mr. Johnson, was a leaseho...


Read More

Establish the matter with relation to the proper construction and application of the lease terms and, in particular, the management and the service element charges that were to be produced to the lease holder.

Gell v 32 St John's Road (Eastbourne) Management Company Ltd [2021]SummaryGell v 32 St John's Road (Eastbourne) Management Company Ltd [2021] is predominantly developed along the lines of the singular issue that challenges the common sense of the service charges by t...


Read More

What does a bank reconciliation entail?

A bank reconciliation is a routine check that should be carried out on any bank account to ensure that the cheques written leave and clear the account and that cash paid in is received by the bank. Monies that have not been received (i.e. perhaps lost in the banking ...


Read More

When is an annual return required?

An annual return is required every year annually on the birthday of the company i.e. the anniversary of the date on which the company was incorporated.


Read More

What are the risks of not doing Section 20 consultation properly?

You are at risk. However, since 2014 the Daejan vs Benson case suggests that a dispensation from consultation might be granted if it is just and reasonable to do so, eg, emergency communal heating failure in winter, else what you can recover from service charge paye...


Read More

What announcement was made by the Housing Secretary recently?

Housing Secretary Michael Gove has reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the tenants. They have announced a series of measures that can provide relief to the affected tenants.


Read More

The interpretation and enforcement of provisions regarding service charges under residential tenancies by pointing out the need for reasonableness and transparency in property management.

Akorita v 36 Gensing Road Limited [LRX/16/2008]SummaryThe cases are similar the Akorita v 36 Gensing Road Limited [LRX/16/2008] as they pose a cause against management and service charges in connection to a property. Mr. Akorita was the lease holder in the case and t...


Read More

Who are most likely to be affected by the rise in energy bills?

The elders and those yet to settle into their jobs are among the most vulnerable. The elders, because their aging bodies cannot cope with the freezing temperature, and the recently employed ones because they will not be able to raise more money to pay the extra charges.


Read More

How did coworking spaces become popular before the pandemic?

Before the pandemic, the GIG economy boosted the development of coworking spaces. Coworking spaces were popular among freelancers, professionals, and entrepreneurs who wanted to work in a professional environment for better networking opportunities.


Read More

How have service charges for flats changed over time?

Since 2018, service charges for flats in England and Wales have increased by 51.7 percent. It is the first time the average annual service charge has exceeded 1,000 per year. However, in the past 12 months, the increase has been more modest at 8.0 percent, aligning w...


Read More

What is the Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service?

The Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service is a new government initiative in England and Wales offering free legal assistance to people at risk of losing their homes.


Read More

How much can households save with heat pumps?

Depending on energy prices, households can save substantially annually by using heat pumps with smart electricity tariffs and removing gas meters. Actual savings vary based on the heat pump's efficiency, but optimising insulation and radiators can further reduce costs.


Read More

What financial support is available for heat pump installations?

The UK government offers grants through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Energy Company Obligation (ECO), and Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan program, providing up to 7,500 grants and additional funding for eligible rural homes.


Read More

What are the trading standards requirements for technology on words used for property listings?

The guidance was updated to enhance property-listing practices, making them more consumer-friendly and transparent, in line with the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. The terms formally defined are:Under Offer, Let Agreed, Let, New On The Mar...


Read More

Which is the best Italian restaurant in Wembley Park?

Pulcinella Pizzeria promises great Italian food in Wembley Park.


Read More

What measures should the UK government focus on to overcome the housing crisis?

The UK government needs to primarily focus on the supply side of the problem. This involves building more houses by providing available land and offering incentives for construction. Also, it is crucial to prioritise the quality and affordability of both new and exis...


Read More

What is the new 2024 energy efficiency target for landlords in England and Wales?

By 2030, all privately rented properties in England and Wales must meet an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of Band C. This applies to private and social housing as part of the government's effort to improve energy efficiency.


Read More

Why are rented homes becoming expensive in the UK?

The key reason for the increase in renting costs in the UK is the shortage of quality homes across the country. People who would ordinarily buy putting their plans on hold due to the cost of living crisis and rising mortgage rates, renting instead, and, the fact that...


Read More

What strategies are being employed to address the skills shortage in the UK construction industry?

Efforts are being made to attract and retain young talent. Enhancing the industry's image among younger generations, implementing reskilling and upskilling initiatives, and bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technologies are key strategies.


Read More