Ask from our Property Experts

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:

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)

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)

What are the Building Safety Act limitation periods

Specifically the Act extents the limitation period to 15 years prospectively for claims under s1 and s2A (claims that accrue after the Act takes effect); and to 30 years retrospectively for claims under s1 (claims that accrued before the Act takes effect).

Read more
Read by(24)

Dispute in respect of contractual obligations and the enforceability of some terms against the commercial lease agreement.

Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, HCSummaryThe case of Minja Properties Limited v Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, HC Per Harman J is that pertaining to the dispute in respect of contractual obligations and the enforceabilit...

Read more
Read by(24)

How to reach Wembley Park?

Wembley is easily accessible by London Underground, London Midland, Southern Lines, and London Overground, connecting London to three main stations, Wembley Park, Wembley Stadium, and Wembley Central.

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)

Why ground source heat pumps are recommended?

Ground source heat pumps help reduce carbon emissions by up to 50 percent compared to traditional systems. They use the natural heat stored in the ground to heat buildings instead of burning fossil fuels like gas or oil.

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)

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)

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)

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 is the LA FLEX scheme?

The LA FLEX scheme is suitable for households not receiving any benefits in the form of aid. The Local Authority Eligibility Flexibility (LA Flex) mechanism provides attractive discounts to households for energy efficiency upgrades. Under the LA FLEX scheme, the gov...

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 does the ruling mean for building owners in Newham?

The verdict serves as a clear warning to all building owners in Newham, underlining the necessity to promptly prioritise fire safety measures, including removing hazardous cladding. Failure to comply may lead to legal prosecution.

Read more
Read by(24)

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)

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(23)

Are Court Appointed Managers subject to any code of conduct or ethical guidelines?

The code of conduct or ethical guidelines for Court Appointed Managers can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific regulations in place. In some jurisdictions, there may be specific codes of conduct or guidelines that govern the behaviour and responsibilities...

Read more
Read by(23)

Why do we need a Company to run the block/site?

A company is need to run the block or site as under UK law only 4 people can own a title at land registry. The involvement of Freehold & Resident Management Companies enable larger groups of people to be in control of a block.

Read more
Read by(23)

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)

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(23)

Why do some consumers express reluctance to use Open Banking?

Misunderstandings and misconceptions lead some consumers to believe Open Banking gathers more data than is required, creating a perception of invasiveness.

Read more
Read by(23)

What are the 2022 UK Build to Rent (BTR) statistics?

To date (2the 022l the UK has seen the construction of circa 76,800 BTR homes through a 30 billion investment. Over 163,400 BTR homes are in the pipeline. Estimates confirm that the next decade will witness the completion of over 38170 million homes with 170 billio...

Read more
Read by(23)

What is the 90 day short let cap?

Airbnb replied to the concerns about the number of listings and their impact and stated that they take housing concerns seriously and have previously worked with the Mayor to enforce a 90-night cap on rentals in London.

Read more
Read by(23)

Explain the factors or scoring criteria in FTSE4 Good Index series ESG risk ratings?

The FTSE4Good Index Series is a group of indices that measure the performance of companies that meet certain environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. The FTSE4Good ESG Ratings are a set of scores that assess the level of ESG risk of companies included in...

Read more
Read by(23)

What will instantly achieve an EPC grade C?

Installing solar PV panels with a storage battery. A standard solar unit comprising a 5kW home storage battery and 3.12kWp solar system will upgrade a house to band C from band E for immediate compliance.

Read more
Read by(23)

Why are the big names in the UK's property industry calling for clarity on EPC regulations?

UK property experts want clear guidance on how and when EPC regulations will be reformed as deadlines loom. There is a lot of confusion about EPC regulations and their implementation.

Read more
Read by(23)

How does the Energy Company Obligation scheme 'ECO4' scheme help the UK households?

The UK government's ECO4 scheme provides free energy efficiency upgrades to qualifying households as grants. These free upgrades help them reduce energy requirements, electricity bills, and carbon emissions. The ECO4 grants fund wall or cavity insulation and new heat...

Read more
Read by(23)

What made Wembley Park famous?

Wembley Park became famous because it hosted Olympic Games, World Cup, and Beatle's last concert in the UK.

Read more
Read by(23)

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(23)

What is the time limit for paying inheritance tax after death?

A penalty will apply to the estate if the executors cannot pay inheritance tax within six months of the date of death.

Read more
Read by(23)

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:


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

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

What are the Building Safety Act limitation periods

Specifically the Act extents the limitation period to 15 years prospectively for claims under s1 and s2A (claims that accrue after the Act takes effect); and to 30 years retrospectively for claims under s1 (claims that accrued before the Act takes effect).


Read More

Dispute in respect of contractual obligations and the enforceability of some terms against the commercial lease agreement.

Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, HCSummaryThe case of Minja Properties Limited v Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, HC Per Harman J is that pertaining to the dispute in respect of contractual obligations and the enforceabilit...


Read More

How to reach Wembley Park?

Wembley is easily accessible by London Underground, London Midland, Southern Lines, and London Overground, connecting London to three main stations, Wembley Park, Wembley Stadium, and Wembley Central.


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

Why ground source heat pumps are recommended?

Ground source heat pumps help reduce carbon emissions by up to 50 percent compared to traditional systems. They use the natural heat stored in the ground to heat buildings instead of burning fossil fuels like gas or oil.


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

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

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

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 is the LA FLEX scheme?

The LA FLEX scheme is suitable for households not receiving any benefits in the form of aid. The Local Authority Eligibility Flexibility (LA Flex) mechanism provides attractive discounts to households for energy efficiency upgrades. Under the LA FLEX scheme, the gov...


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 does the ruling mean for building owners in Newham?

The verdict serves as a clear warning to all building owners in Newham, underlining the necessity to promptly prioritise fire safety measures, including removing hazardous cladding. Failure to comply may lead to legal prosecution.


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

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

Are Court Appointed Managers subject to any code of conduct or ethical guidelines?

The code of conduct or ethical guidelines for Court Appointed Managers can vary depending on the jurisdiction and specific regulations in place. In some jurisdictions, there may be specific codes of conduct or guidelines that govern the behaviour and responsibilities...


Read More

Why do we need a Company to run the block/site?

A company is need to run the block or site as under UK law only 4 people can own a title at land registry. The involvement of Freehold & Resident Management Companies enable larger groups of people to be in control of a block.


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

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

Why do some consumers express reluctance to use Open Banking?

Misunderstandings and misconceptions lead some consumers to believe Open Banking gathers more data than is required, creating a perception of invasiveness.


Read More

What are the 2022 UK Build to Rent (BTR) statistics?

To date (2the 022l the UK has seen the construction of circa 76,800 BTR homes through a 30 billion investment. Over 163,400 BTR homes are in the pipeline. Estimates confirm that the next decade will witness the completion of over 38170 million homes with 170 billio...


Read More

What is the 90 day short let cap?

Airbnb replied to the concerns about the number of listings and their impact and stated that they take housing concerns seriously and have previously worked with the Mayor to enforce a 90-night cap on rentals in London.


Read More

Explain the factors or scoring criteria in FTSE4 Good Index series ESG risk ratings?

The FTSE4Good Index Series is a group of indices that measure the performance of companies that meet certain environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. The FTSE4Good ESG Ratings are a set of scores that assess the level of ESG risk of companies included in...


Read More

What will instantly achieve an EPC grade C?

Installing solar PV panels with a storage battery. A standard solar unit comprising a 5kW home storage battery and 3.12kWp solar system will upgrade a house to band C from band E for immediate compliance.


Read More

Why are the big names in the UK's property industry calling for clarity on EPC regulations?

UK property experts want clear guidance on how and when EPC regulations will be reformed as deadlines loom. There is a lot of confusion about EPC regulations and their implementation.


Read More

How does the Energy Company Obligation scheme 'ECO4' scheme help the UK households?

The UK government's ECO4 scheme provides free energy efficiency upgrades to qualifying households as grants. These free upgrades help them reduce energy requirements, electricity bills, and carbon emissions. The ECO4 grants fund wall or cavity insulation and new heat...


Read More

What made Wembley Park famous?

Wembley Park became famous because it hosted Olympic Games, World Cup, and Beatle's last concert in the UK.


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 time limit for paying inheritance tax after death?

A penalty will apply to the estate if the executors cannot pay inheritance tax within six months of the date of death.


Read More