What our customers are asking:
When a flat is sold and there are arrears on service charges and/or ground rents what happens? Also if after preparing the year end accounts there is a surplus to redistribute back to the leaseholders, is it the leaseholders at that point that get the refund or the ones that actually paid towards the service charges on account during the year?
The mechanism to help stop sales complete when there are service charge/ground rent arrears is a restriction registered at HM LAnd Registry. This restriction usually requires the Managing Agent to issue a certificate of compliance so that UNLESS a certificate of comp...
Read moreRead by(47)
Can I refuse to pay ground rent if the freeholder is absent?
The absence of a freeholder does not automatically entitle you to refuse to pay ground rent. Ground rent is typically a contractual obligation outlined in the lease agreement, and unless there are specific provisions or legal circumstances that relieve you of the obl...
Read moreRead by(47)
In the case of Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] why was thier a dispute between two property companies?
In the case of Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, the High Court of England and Wales, presided over by Harman J, examined a dispute between two property companies, Minja Properties Limited and Cussins Property Group. The case involv...
Read moreRead by(47)
Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225 is a case associated with negligence and occupiers' liability pertaining to maintenance liability for a public pavement.
Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225SummaryOliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225 is a case associated with negligence and occupiers' liability pertaining to maintenance liability for a public pavement. A judgment delivered by the Court of...
Read moreRead by(47)
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property in the UK. It rates the energy efficiency and environmental impact of a building on a scale from A to G.
Read moreRead by(46)
How much can individuals expect their Council Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates to increase in 2024-25?
On average, individuals can anticipate a 17 per cent increase in LHA rates for 2024-25. This translates to an additional 110 per month, providing crucial relief for renters facing escalating housing costs.
Read moreRead by(45)
How many exits did the Grenfell Tower have?
Grenfell Tower had only one exit, no sprinklers and had a 'stay put' policy. The Fire Risk Assessment did not consider the risks from the flammable materials that caused devastating external fire spread. The Fire Service did not change the 'stay put policy' on the d...
Read moreRead by(44)
Which is the best place to live in Wembley?
Many prefer settling in Sudbury Hill, North Wembley, and Preston Road areas. There are other places to settle down and enjoy life in Wembley.
Read moreRead by(42)
15. What does an absent landlord insurance policy cover?
Absent landlord insurance policies typically provide coverage for situations where the landlord of a property is absent or untraceable. While the specific coverage can vary between insurance providers, here are some common aspects covered by absent landlord insurance...
Read moreRead by(42)
How do you value a property developer?
Gross development value less costs, known as the Residual Method, is used to establish a range of values for Land & Development Valuations and the depreciated replacement cost method can be used for specialist properties where there is a very limited market, such...
Read moreRead by(42)
NV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management Limited is a case of service charges administration and it shows the role of a management company in giving the tenants enough assurances that their service charges are accounted for and not charged excessively.
NV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management LimitedSummaryNV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management Limited is a case of service charges administration and it shows the role of a management company in giving the tenants enough assurances that their service charges are acco...
Read moreRead by(42)
How is the case of the case of Daejan Investments Ltd v Benson and Others [2013] addresses the interpretation and application of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985?
The case of Daejan Investments Ltd v Benson and Others [2013] is a significant decision in UK caselaw that addresses the interpretation and application of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. The case specifically explores the requirements for consultation...
Read moreRead by(41)
Where and how do you keep service charge monies? How are they administered and who receives any interest?
All client funds are held in interest-bearing client accounts administered in accordance with Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Client Money Protection Scheme. All interest accrues to the leaseholders. All accounts are managed according to the RICS Code...
Read moreRead by(41)
Which are the best areas to invest in real estate in Coventry?
Experts recommend investing in Westwood Heath, Earlsdon, Wainbody, Woodlands, Cheylesmor, and Whitmore Park.
Read moreRead by(41)
What is the factors or scoring criteria in Sustainalytics ESG risk ratings?
Sustainalytics is a leading provider of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research and ratings. Their ESG risk ratings assess the ESG performance and risk exposure of companies based on a range of criteria. While the exact factors and scoring criteria used ...
Read moreRead by(41)
Why is the case of Burr V OM Property Management Limited [2013] important to the timing of invoicing utility bills as service charge?
Burr v OM Property Management Limited [2013] is a notable case in UK caselaw that involved a dispute between a leaseholder, Mrs. Burr, and the property management company, OM Property Management Limited. The case centered around the issue of service charges and the i...
Read moreRead by(39)
The case identifies disputes arising over property right, property law, and the exposition of tenancy agreements in public authority leases.
Brent LBC v Shulem B Association [2011] EWHC 1663 (Ch)SummaryThe case of Brent London Borough Council (LBC) v Shulem B Association [2011] EWHC 1663 (Ch) concerns a claim for the determination of the court in matters of property possession. Brent LBC sought possession...
Read moreRead by(39)
What is Ringley's London office opening times
Office hours are 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday and 9.30a to 5pm on Friday
Read moreRead by(38)
Interpretation of given contractual terms specifying rent review mechanism under a lease agreement between E.ON UK plc and Gilesports Ltd.
E.ON UK plc v Gilesports Ltd [2012] EWHC 2172 (Ch)SummaryE.ON UK plc v Gilesports Ltd [2012] EWHC 2172 (Ch) is a case that carries immense importance within the realms of commercial leases and specially in the context of the interpretation of rent review clauses. The...
Read moreRead by(38)
What is the average cost of renting a home in Wembley?
The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Wembley is around 1600 per month. However, rental prices can fluctuate depending on the location of the home.
Read moreRead by(38)
The case of Continental Property Ventures Inc v White was brought in regard to the enforceability of lease covenants and a landlord's right to forfeit a lease in relation to the breaches committed by a tenant.
Continental Property Ventures Inc v White [2006] 1 E.G.L.R. 85SummaryThe case of Continental Property Ventures Inc v White [2006] 1 E.G.L.R. 85 was brought in regard to the enforceability of lease covenants and a landlord's right to forfeit a lease in relation to the...
Read moreRead by(38)
What is the construction of a restrictive covenant imposed on a parcel of residential property and how such a covenant would have affected future development?
Skelton v DBS Homes (Kings Hill) Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 1139, [2018] 1 WLR 362SummarySkelton v DBS Homes (Kings Hill) is a leading case in the law of property pertaining to the enforcement of restrictive covenants. The judgment by the Court of Appeal was essentially bas...
Read moreRead by(37)
On decision making - at present the Freehold flats have one vote each in the Freehold company, which may causes a stalemate in the future. However, we don't want the non freeholder director to have the casting vote, as this will give them greater control than the freeholders. So the question is: Can we appoint a non freeholder as an additional director, but limit their vote to only maintenance issues and not issue affecting the interest of the freehold.
YES, you can and you can call up on that person when you need to. Qualified Chartered surveyors such as myself can act as a 'professional Director' the cost is 100 per annum
Read moreRead by(37)
No freeholder to repair and maintain the communal areas
When there is no freeholder available to repair and maintain the communal areas of a property, it can create challenges for the leaseholders or residents. Here are some possible steps to address this situation:- Review the lease agreement: Examine the lease agreem...
Read moreRead by(37)
What is the average age of first-time homebuyers in the UK?
The average age of the UK's first-time homebuyer is 45 years
Read moreRead by(36)
What does the rent reform bill propose?
The Private Rental Reform bill will include measures to support private landlords for out-of-court settlement of disputes. A Private Renter's Ombudsman will have powers to reduce legal disputes and costs. An online platform to help landlords access the necessary info...
Read moreRead by(36)
What are the legal tests under the Defective Premises Act?
To succeed in such a claim, a claimant must show in particular that the defects being complained of render the dwelling or building ‘unfit for habitation’.This ‘unfit for habitation’ test is a relatively high hurdle to surmount and the test has not to date really bee...
Read moreRead by(35)
Who claims under the Defective Premises Act?
The Defective Premises Act 1972 only covers “dwellings” which for residential blocks means that the apartments themselves are covered, but the common parts are not. The Building Safety Bill will, however, introduce a new provision into the Defective Premises Ac1972 ...
Read moreRead by(35)
How do I challenge a leasehold service charge?
This is a common question amongst leaseholders who either feel they are being over charged or that they are not receiving value for money form their managing agent. In the first instance they need to write to the managing agent stating their concerns and if a satisfa...
Read moreRead by(35)
What is a Section 21 notice Housing Act 1988?
A section 21 (s21) notice is a written statement from the landlord to the tenant saying they wish to regain vacant possession of the rented property. Section 21 refers to Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. It is a no fault route for ending a tenancy. It is propos...
Read moreRead by(35)
Ask our Experts
What our customers are asking:
When a flat is sold and there are arrears on service charges and/or ground rents what happens? Also if after preparing the year end accounts there is a surplus to redistribute back to the leaseholders, is it the leaseholders at that point that get the refund or the ones that actually paid towards the service charges on account during the year?
The mechanism to help stop sales complete when there are service charge/ground rent arrears is a restriction registered at HM LAnd Registry. This restriction usually requires the Managing Agent to issue a certificate of compliance so that UNLESS a certificate of comp...
Read More
Can I refuse to pay ground rent if the freeholder is absent?
The absence of a freeholder does not automatically entitle you to refuse to pay ground rent. Ground rent is typically a contractual obligation outlined in the lease agreement, and unless there are specific provisions or legal circumstances that relieve you of the obl...
Read More
In the case of Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] why was thier a dispute between two property companies?
In the case of Minja Properties Limited v. Cussins Property Group [1998] 2 EGLR 52, the High Court of England and Wales, presided over by Harman J, examined a dispute between two property companies, Minja Properties Limited and Cussins Property Group. The case involv...
Read More
Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225 is a case associated with negligence and occupiers' liability pertaining to maintenance liability for a public pavement.
Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225SummaryOliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] EWCA Civ 225 is a case associated with negligence and occupiers' liability pertaining to maintenance liability for a public pavement. A judgment delivered by the Court of...
Read More
What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a document that provides information about the energy efficiency of a property in the UK. It rates the energy efficiency and environmental impact of a building on a scale from A to G.
Read More
How much can individuals expect their Council Housing Benefit or Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates to increase in 2024-25?
On average, individuals can anticipate a 17 per cent increase in LHA rates for 2024-25. This translates to an additional 110 per month, providing crucial relief for renters facing escalating housing costs.
Read More
How many exits did the Grenfell Tower have?
Grenfell Tower had only one exit, no sprinklers and had a 'stay put' policy. The Fire Risk Assessment did not consider the risks from the flammable materials that caused devastating external fire spread. The Fire Service did not change the 'stay put policy' on the d...
Read More
Which is the best place to live in Wembley?
Many prefer settling in Sudbury Hill, North Wembley, and Preston Road areas. There are other places to settle down and enjoy life in Wembley.
Read More
15. What does an absent landlord insurance policy cover?
Absent landlord insurance policies typically provide coverage for situations where the landlord of a property is absent or untraceable. While the specific coverage can vary between insurance providers, here are some common aspects covered by absent landlord insurance...
Read More
How do you value a property developer?
Gross development value less costs, known as the Residual Method, is used to establish a range of values for Land & Development Valuations and the depreciated replacement cost method can be used for specialist properties where there is a very limited market, such...
Read More
NV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management Limited is a case of service charges administration and it shows the role of a management company in giving the tenants enough assurances that their service charges are accounted for and not charged excessively.
NV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management LimitedSummaryNV Buildings (Salford Quays) Management Limited is a case of service charges administration and it shows the role of a management company in giving the tenants enough assurances that their service charges are acco...
Read More
How is the case of the case of Daejan Investments Ltd v Benson and Others [2013] addresses the interpretation and application of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985?
The case of Daejan Investments Ltd v Benson and Others [2013] is a significant decision in UK caselaw that addresses the interpretation and application of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. The case specifically explores the requirements for consultation...
Read More
Where and how do you keep service charge monies? How are they administered and who receives any interest?
All client funds are held in interest-bearing client accounts administered in accordance with Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Client Money Protection Scheme. All interest accrues to the leaseholders. All accounts are managed according to the RICS Code...
Read More
Which are the best areas to invest in real estate in Coventry?
Experts recommend investing in Westwood Heath, Earlsdon, Wainbody, Woodlands, Cheylesmor, and Whitmore Park.
Read More
What is the factors or scoring criteria in Sustainalytics ESG risk ratings?
Sustainalytics is a leading provider of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research and ratings. Their ESG risk ratings assess the ESG performance and risk exposure of companies based on a range of criteria. While the exact factors and scoring criteria used ...
Read More
Why is the case of Burr V OM Property Management Limited [2013] important to the timing of invoicing utility bills as service charge?
Burr v OM Property Management Limited [2013] is a notable case in UK caselaw that involved a dispute between a leaseholder, Mrs. Burr, and the property management company, OM Property Management Limited. The case centered around the issue of service charges and the i...
Read More
The case identifies disputes arising over property right, property law, and the exposition of tenancy agreements in public authority leases.
Brent LBC v Shulem B Association [2011] EWHC 1663 (Ch)SummaryThe case of Brent London Borough Council (LBC) v Shulem B Association [2011] EWHC 1663 (Ch) concerns a claim for the determination of the court in matters of property possession. Brent LBC sought possession...
Read More
What is Ringley's London office opening times
Office hours are 9.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Thursday and 9.30a to 5pm on Friday
Read More
Interpretation of given contractual terms specifying rent review mechanism under a lease agreement between E.ON UK plc and Gilesports Ltd.
E.ON UK plc v Gilesports Ltd [2012] EWHC 2172 (Ch)SummaryE.ON UK plc v Gilesports Ltd [2012] EWHC 2172 (Ch) is a case that carries immense importance within the realms of commercial leases and specially in the context of the interpretation of rent review clauses. The...
Read More
What is the average cost of renting a home in Wembley?
The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in Wembley is around 1600 per month. However, rental prices can fluctuate depending on the location of the home.
Read More
The case of Continental Property Ventures Inc v White was brought in regard to the enforceability of lease covenants and a landlord's right to forfeit a lease in relation to the breaches committed by a tenant.
Continental Property Ventures Inc v White [2006] 1 E.G.L.R. 85SummaryThe case of Continental Property Ventures Inc v White [2006] 1 E.G.L.R. 85 was brought in regard to the enforceability of lease covenants and a landlord's right to forfeit a lease in relation to the...
Read More
What is the construction of a restrictive covenant imposed on a parcel of residential property and how such a covenant would have affected future development?
Skelton v DBS Homes (Kings Hill) Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 1139, [2018] 1 WLR 362SummarySkelton v DBS Homes (Kings Hill) is a leading case in the law of property pertaining to the enforcement of restrictive covenants. The judgment by the Court of Appeal was essentially bas...
Read More
On decision making - at present the Freehold flats have one vote each in the Freehold company, which may causes a stalemate in the future. However, we don't want the non freeholder director to have the casting vote, as this will give them greater control than the freeholders. So the question is: Can we appoint a non freeholder as an additional director, but limit their vote to only maintenance issues and not issue affecting the interest of the freehold.
YES, you can and you can call up on that person when you need to. Qualified Chartered surveyors such as myself can act as a 'professional Director' the cost is 100 per annum
Read More
No freeholder to repair and maintain the communal areas
When there is no freeholder available to repair and maintain the communal areas of a property, it can create challenges for the leaseholders or residents. Here are some possible steps to address this situation:- Review the lease agreement: Examine the lease agreem...
Read More
What is the average age of first-time homebuyers in the UK?
The average age of the UK's first-time homebuyer is 45 years
Read More
What does the rent reform bill propose?
The Private Rental Reform bill will include measures to support private landlords for out-of-court settlement of disputes. A Private Renter's Ombudsman will have powers to reduce legal disputes and costs. An online platform to help landlords access the necessary info...
Read More
What are the legal tests under the Defective Premises Act?
To succeed in such a claim, a claimant must show in particular that the defects being complained of render the dwelling or building ‘unfit for habitation’.This ‘unfit for habitation’ test is a relatively high hurdle to surmount and the test has not to date really bee...
Read More
Who claims under the Defective Premises Act?
The Defective Premises Act 1972 only covers “dwellings” which for residential blocks means that the apartments themselves are covered, but the common parts are not. The Building Safety Bill will, however, introduce a new provision into the Defective Premises Ac1972 ...
Read More
How do I challenge a leasehold service charge?
This is a common question amongst leaseholders who either feel they are being over charged or that they are not receiving value for money form their managing agent. In the first instance they need to write to the managing agent stating their concerns and if a satisfa...
Read More
What is a Section 21 notice Housing Act 1988?
A section 21 (s21) notice is a written statement from the landlord to the tenant saying they wish to regain vacant possession of the rented property. Section 21 refers to Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988. It is a no fault route for ending a tenancy. It is propos...
Read More