Ask from our Property Experts

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:

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(10)

What is an absent freeholder?

An absent freeholder refers to a situation where the legal owner or landlord of a property is not actively involved or available in the management or maintenance of the property. The absent freeholder may be physically absent, unresponsive to communication, or not ac...

Read more
Read by(10)

I’m happy to host the AGM in my property. Is this possible?

What a lovely idea, just suggest this to your Property Manager.

Read more
Read by(10)

What is the meaning of a term in a construction contract?

Stagecoach South Western Trains Ltd v (1) Kathleen Hind (2) Andrew Steel [2014] EWHC 1891 (TCC)SummaryThe case of Stagecoach South Western Trains Ltd v (1) Kathleen Hind (2) Andrew Steel [2014] EWHC 1891 (TCC) is a case that includes an element of dispute regarding a...

Read more
Read by(10)

Are there any positives for landlords in the Bill?

Yes, there are many, and the second reading has listed quite a few.

Read more
Read by(10)

What are the responsibilities for maintenance and repair works of tenants?

18 St Clairs, Croydon, Decided 17th MarchSummaryThe decision of 18 St Clairs, Croydon, determined on 17th March 2008 is a case that entails a landlord's fight with the Tenant for the performance of lease terms but most necessary with regards to responsibilities for m...

Read more
Read by(10)

How does CDP climate change scores rating or accreditation system work?

CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) operates a climate change rating and accreditation system that assesses companies' efforts and performance in managing climate-related risks and opportunities. CDP's scoring methodology considers various factors a...

Read more
Read by(10)

How long does a measured survey take, and what factors can influence the duration?

The duration of a measured survey can vary depending on the size, complexity, and accessibility of the building or site. A basic survey for a small property may take a few hours, while larger or more intricate structures could take several days.

Read more
Read by(10)

What level of insurance commissions is normal at First port and Estates and Management?

In a case due to be heard at Tribunal in January 2024, Brian White alleges that FirstPort imposes charges on leaseholders and threatens late payment fees to discourage challenging insurance premiums. The property concerned is Hollin Bank Court in Blackburn and White...

Read more
Read by(10)

What is Building Biology and its primary objective?

Building Biology signifies a comprehensive strategy for designing and shaping environments in construction with a holistic viewpoint, highlighting the health of inhabitants and promoting sustainable structures.

Read more
Read by(10)

A complaint involving the reasonableness and the equity of service charges being levied on Mr. Mullaney by the lessor, Maybourne.

Mullaney v. Maybourne Grange (Croydon) Management Co [1986] 1 E.G.L.R.70 SummarySummaryThe case of Mullaney v Maybourne Grange (Croydon) Management Co. [1986] 1 E.G.L.R. 70 is argued over a complaint involving the reasonableness and the equity of service charges bein...

Read more
Read by(10)

Why is using a home buildings insurance calculator recommended for determining insurance coverage?

Home building insurance calculators consider multiple factors, including reconstruction costs, and liability coverage needs, ensuring accurate coverage assessment.

Read more
Read by(10)

What are the rights of the lessees, the alterations tenant is allowed to do to any of the flat and the construction of under lease concerning the development right

Roof Development (Hannon v 169 Queen's Gate Limited)SummaryThis is an application relating to a proposed refurbishment development across the roof of a premises by 169 Queen's Gate Limited, the Freeholder, and an affected Mr. Hannon, who is a leaseholder. This applic...

Read more
Read by(10)

Are Court Appointed Managers compensated for their services?

Yes, Court Appointed Managers are typically compensated for their services. The compensation arrangements for Court Appointed Managers can vary depending on the specific circumstances, the jurisdiction, and the court's order appointing them. Generally, there are thre...

Read more
Read by(10)

1. What is the court appointment for a manager?

The court appointment of a manager is a legal process through which a court appoints a third party, typically a professional property manager, to assume the management and administration of a property or a specific aspect of its management. This process usually occur...

Read more
Read by(10)

What is the real living wage in London?

The real living wage in London is (£)11.95. This compares against the proposed National Living Wage rise which will come into force from April 1, 2023 to 10.40 (up from the present (£)9.50).

Read more
Read by(10)

What happens when a Court Appointed Manager's term expires?

When a Court Appointed Manager's term expires, the specific actions and outcomes can vary depending on the circumstances and the court's order. Here are some possible scenarios:- Renewal or Extension: In some cases, if the court determines that the management of t...

Read more
Read by(10)

What happens if a landlord fails to comply with current regulations?

Landlords who refuse to accept the new regulations may face serious consequences. It may include a fine or even imprisonment.

Read more
Read by(10)

Is there a legal basis of a "right to light" that may be blocked by adjacent trees? We are a small development of 22 flats set in what was the copse of the Old Manor House in Bedhampton, Havant. Our grounds are surrounded on two side by trees both in our grounds and outside our boundary which act as a barrier from the road for us and is part of the street scene outside. The majority of the trees in our grounds are subject to Tree Preservation Orders and every couple of years or so we apply to our local authority for planning permission to maintain the trees. A few years ago the area in which we live was designated a Conservation area so now we not only have to apply for planning consent to have tree works on the trees covered by TPO's we also have to apply for any tree work under the Conservation Order. We have four blocks, three of two floors, ground and first, and one block which is in the wooded area of our grounds, has three floors, ground first and second. The leaseholders who live on the top floor of this block have asked for the trees surrounding them to be reduced in height to allow more light into there apartments. Our local authority trees officer is of the view that the trees are healthy and form part of the conservation area/character and street scene and are not in need of reduction. The tree officer maintains the "right to light" is a factor that does not come into the decision making when considering application for reducing trees.

I know of no law that gives a legal right to light (where obstructed by trees) and can't possibly conceive there would be such a law If there were no doubt the councils would all be bankrupt from paying out !! there are rights enabling an owner to cut back parts of a...

Read more
Read by(9)

What is leasehold tenure, and how does it affect achieving Net Zero?

Leasehold tenure involves owning the right to occupy a property for a specific period without owning the underlying land. This setup adds challenges to achieving Net Zero, as it limits property modifications and improvements and can lead to misalignment of sustainabi...

Read more
Read by(9)

Which sector is the biggest employer in Wembley?

According to the ONS of Office of National Statistics, the wholesale and retail sectors offer employment of various types in the borough of Brent.

Read more
Read by(9)

Can you stop time on a building developer defect claim?

In short yes. Where the Buildng Safety Act extended 15 or 30 year limitation periods (effectively inserted into the Defective Premises Act 1972 and the Section 38 Building Act 1984) are near their end, residents, building owners and their advisors should seek to ent...

Read more
Read by(9)

What was the limitation period of the Defective Premises Act 1972 before the Building Safety Act 2022?

Prior to the Building Safety Act 2022, the Defective Premises Act 1972 required claims to be brought within 6 years. The Building Safety Act which received Royal Assent on the 28th April 2022 has now completed all the parliamentary stages in both Houses to become an...

Read more
Read by(9)

Which are the best cycle routes in Wembley?

The Three Parks, Brent River Park, and Harrow to Stanmore routes are popular among cyclists.

Read more
Read by(9)

What are the new energy efficiency rules for the private rental sector in the UK?

The UK government is proposing to raise the minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating to a band C by 2025 for new tenancies and for all tenancies by 2028.

Read more
Read by(9)

What are the main fiscal rules or regimes the UK government follows?

The government's primary fiscal rule dictates that debt should decrease as a percentage of national income within a rolling five-year period.

Read more
Read by(9)

How do I apply to the Tribunal for an appointed property manager?

To apply to the tribunal for an appointed property manager, you would generally follow these steps:- Review the eligibility criteria: Familiarize yourself with the specific eligibility requirements for applying to the tribunal for an appointed property manager. Th...

Read more
Read by(9)

What is the government’s doing to make lease extensions easier?

The government will introduce legislation to make valuation easier for lease extensions and also make the process of lease extension less hassling. Freeholders can gain control of their buildings and carry out the required measures.

Read more
Read by(9)

Why Is ESG Important?

The disclosure of ESG data infuses transparency, helps reduce risks and helps identify opportunities.

Read more
Read by(9)

How many landlords left the rental market in 2022?

Properties available to rent plunged by 49 percent between March 2019 and March 2022. 53 percent of buy-to-let properties were permanently removed from the private rental market.

Read more
Read by(9)

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:


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 an absent freeholder?

An absent freeholder refers to a situation where the legal owner or landlord of a property is not actively involved or available in the management or maintenance of the property. The absent freeholder may be physically absent, unresponsive to communication, or not ac...


Read More

I’m happy to host the AGM in my property. Is this possible?

What a lovely idea, just suggest this to your Property Manager.


Read More

What is the meaning of a term in a construction contract?

Stagecoach South Western Trains Ltd v (1) Kathleen Hind (2) Andrew Steel [2014] EWHC 1891 (TCC)SummaryThe case of Stagecoach South Western Trains Ltd v (1) Kathleen Hind (2) Andrew Steel [2014] EWHC 1891 (TCC) is a case that includes an element of dispute regarding a...


Read More

Are there any positives for landlords in the Bill?

Yes, there are many, and the second reading has listed quite a few.


Read More

What are the responsibilities for maintenance and repair works of tenants?

18 St Clairs, Croydon, Decided 17th MarchSummaryThe decision of 18 St Clairs, Croydon, determined on 17th March 2008 is a case that entails a landlord's fight with the Tenant for the performance of lease terms but most necessary with regards to responsibilities for m...


Read More

How does CDP climate change scores rating or accreditation system work?

CDP (formerly known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) operates a climate change rating and accreditation system that assesses companies' efforts and performance in managing climate-related risks and opportunities. CDP's scoring methodology considers various factors a...


Read More

How long does a measured survey take, and what factors can influence the duration?

The duration of a measured survey can vary depending on the size, complexity, and accessibility of the building or site. A basic survey for a small property may take a few hours, while larger or more intricate structures could take several days.


Read More

What level of insurance commissions is normal at First port and Estates and Management?

In a case due to be heard at Tribunal in January 2024, Brian White alleges that FirstPort imposes charges on leaseholders and threatens late payment fees to discourage challenging insurance premiums. The property concerned is Hollin Bank Court in Blackburn and White...


Read More

What is Building Biology and its primary objective?

Building Biology signifies a comprehensive strategy for designing and shaping environments in construction with a holistic viewpoint, highlighting the health of inhabitants and promoting sustainable structures.


Read More

A complaint involving the reasonableness and the equity of service charges being levied on Mr. Mullaney by the lessor, Maybourne.

Mullaney v. Maybourne Grange (Croydon) Management Co [1986] 1 E.G.L.R.70 SummarySummaryThe case of Mullaney v Maybourne Grange (Croydon) Management Co. [1986] 1 E.G.L.R. 70 is argued over a complaint involving the reasonableness and the equity of service charges bein...


Read More

Why is using a home buildings insurance calculator recommended for determining insurance coverage?

Home building insurance calculators consider multiple factors, including reconstruction costs, and liability coverage needs, ensuring accurate coverage assessment.


Read More

What are the rights of the lessees, the alterations tenant is allowed to do to any of the flat and the construction of under lease concerning the development right

Roof Development (Hannon v 169 Queen's Gate Limited)SummaryThis is an application relating to a proposed refurbishment development across the roof of a premises by 169 Queen's Gate Limited, the Freeholder, and an affected Mr. Hannon, who is a leaseholder. This applic...


Read More

Are Court Appointed Managers compensated for their services?

Yes, Court Appointed Managers are typically compensated for their services. The compensation arrangements for Court Appointed Managers can vary depending on the specific circumstances, the jurisdiction, and the court's order appointing them. Generally, there are thre...


Read More

1. What is the court appointment for a manager?

The court appointment of a manager is a legal process through which a court appoints a third party, typically a professional property manager, to assume the management and administration of a property or a specific aspect of its management. This process usually occur...


Read More

What is the real living wage in London?

The real living wage in London is (£)11.95. This compares against the proposed National Living Wage rise which will come into force from April 1, 2023 to 10.40 (up from the present (£)9.50).


Read More

What happens when a Court Appointed Manager's term expires?

When a Court Appointed Manager's term expires, the specific actions and outcomes can vary depending on the circumstances and the court's order. Here are some possible scenarios:- Renewal or Extension: In some cases, if the court determines that the management of t...


Read More

What happens if a landlord fails to comply with current regulations?

Landlords who refuse to accept the new regulations may face serious consequences. It may include a fine or even imprisonment.


Read More

Is there a legal basis of a "right to light" that may be blocked by adjacent trees? We are a small development of 22 flats set in what was the copse of the Old Manor House in Bedhampton, Havant. Our grounds are surrounded on two side by trees both in our grounds and outside our boundary which act as a barrier from the road for us and is part of the street scene outside. The majority of the trees in our grounds are subject to Tree Preservation Orders and every couple of years or so we apply to our local authority for planning permission to maintain the trees. A few years ago the area in which we live was designated a Conservation area so now we not only have to apply for planning consent to have tree works on the trees covered by TPO's we also have to apply for any tree work under the Conservation Order. We have four blocks, three of two floors, ground and first, and one block which is in the wooded area of our grounds, has three floors, ground first and second. The leaseholders who live on the top floor of this block have asked for the trees surrounding them to be reduced in height to allow more light into there apartments. Our local authority trees officer is of the view that the trees are healthy and form part of the conservation area/character and street scene and are not in need of reduction. The tree officer maintains the "right to light" is a factor that does not come into the decision making when considering application for reducing trees.

I know of no law that gives a legal right to light (where obstructed by trees) and can't possibly conceive there would be such a law If there were no doubt the councils would all be bankrupt from paying out !! there are rights enabling an owner to cut back parts of a...


Read More

What is leasehold tenure, and how does it affect achieving Net Zero?

Leasehold tenure involves owning the right to occupy a property for a specific period without owning the underlying land. This setup adds challenges to achieving Net Zero, as it limits property modifications and improvements and can lead to misalignment of sustainabi...


Read More

Which sector is the biggest employer in Wembley?

According to the ONS of Office of National Statistics, the wholesale and retail sectors offer employment of various types in the borough of Brent.


Read More

Can you stop time on a building developer defect claim?

In short yes. Where the Buildng Safety Act extended 15 or 30 year limitation periods (effectively inserted into the Defective Premises Act 1972 and the Section 38 Building Act 1984) are near their end, residents, building owners and their advisors should seek to ent...


Read More

What was the limitation period of the Defective Premises Act 1972 before the Building Safety Act 2022?

Prior to the Building Safety Act 2022, the Defective Premises Act 1972 required claims to be brought within 6 years. The Building Safety Act which received Royal Assent on the 28th April 2022 has now completed all the parliamentary stages in both Houses to become an...


Read More

Which are the best cycle routes in Wembley?

The Three Parks, Brent River Park, and Harrow to Stanmore routes are popular among cyclists.


Read More

What are the new energy efficiency rules for the private rental sector in the UK?

The UK government is proposing to raise the minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating to a band C by 2025 for new tenancies and for all tenancies by 2028.


Read More

What are the main fiscal rules or regimes the UK government follows?

The government's primary fiscal rule dictates that debt should decrease as a percentage of national income within a rolling five-year period.


Read More

How do I apply to the Tribunal for an appointed property manager?

To apply to the tribunal for an appointed property manager, you would generally follow these steps:- Review the eligibility criteria: Familiarize yourself with the specific eligibility requirements for applying to the tribunal for an appointed property manager. Th...


Read More

What is the government’s doing to make lease extensions easier?

The government will introduce legislation to make valuation easier for lease extensions and also make the process of lease extension less hassling. Freeholders can gain control of their buildings and carry out the required measures.


Read More

Why Is ESG Important?

The disclosure of ESG data infuses transparency, helps reduce risks and helps identify opportunities.


Read More

How many landlords left the rental market in 2022?

Properties available to rent plunged by 49 percent between March 2019 and March 2022. 53 percent of buy-to-let properties were permanently removed from the private rental market.


Read More