Ask from our Property Experts

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:

Who can be a director of a newly formed RTM company?

It is legally possible for the RTM to have one single director, but it's more common and effective for there to be between three and five directors, depending on the size of the block.

Read more
Read by(23)

The future Management of your block after RTM 

On the Acquisition Date of your RTM Company, all existing management contracts end automatically unless otherwise agreed upon by the RTM Company in advance. Therefore, a prospective and vetted managing agent is ready BEFORE the Acquisition Date. The RTM Company will ...

Read more
Read by(23)

What is the approximate cost to upgrade a property with an existing rating of D to EPC band B or C?

The cost of upgrading a property with an EPC rating of D to C could be as much as 6,000

Read more
Read by(23)

why does The case of BDW Trading Ltd v South Anglia Housing Ltd enforcement a contract for the sale of land?

The case of BDW Trading Ltd v South Anglia Housing Ltd is a notable legal case that deals with the interpretation and enforcement of a contract for the sale of land and the consequences of a breach of contract.In this case, BDW Trading Ltd (the claimant) and South An...

Read more
Read by(23)

This case brings out significant questions with respect to the statutory consultation requirements for major works under the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985.

Daejan Investments Limited (Appellant) v Benson and Others [2013] UKSC 14SummaryThis case of Daejan Investments Limited, Appellant v Benson and others [2013] UKSC 14 brings out significant questions with respect to the statutory consultation requirements for major wo...

Read more
Read by(23)

What is LVC or Land Value Capture?

Land value capture (LVC) involves capturing the increase in land value caused by public investment, planning decisions, or other factors and using this enhanced value to fund public infrastructure, affordable housing, or other community benefits.

Read more
Read by(23)

The Agent is demanding 5,000 of me in July for a new roof, I have had no say over this what so ever, is this a correct way of dealing with things, can I then pay this in installments.

You do have a say, any demand over 250 for any 1 service charge payer must be subject to statutory section 20 consultation (up to 3 notices of 30 days each) the notices are 'statutory consultation' and you have 30 days to make observations, all such observations MUST...

Read more
Read by(22)

What is the purpose of the RICS?

RICS – The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) represents the property profession in 146 countries, and regulates its ‘Chartered’ members. All valuations are subject to the RICS International Valuation Standards otherwise known as the ‘Red Book’.

Read more
Read by(22)

What are BTR properties?

BTR or Build-to-Rent properties are residential properties purpose-built for rental purposes. They are designed with the needs of renters in mind and offer high-quality amenities and services. Build to Rent (BTR), a growing segment of the UK residential sector and i...

Read more
Read by(22)

What changes have been made to the capital gains tax rules?

In the budget of October 2022, the UK government announced that capital gains tax allowance is being reduced by 50 percent. They apply to profits made from selling or disposing of an asset like a buy-to-let property or other asset of value.

Read more
Read by(22)

What Will the Infrastructure Levy Replace?

The Infrastructure Levy will replace CIL, Section 106, and affordable housing contributions with a single flat-rate levy.

Read more
Read by(22)

What are the responsibilities of an absent freeholder?

The responsibilities of an absent freeholder can vary depending on the specific circumstances, lease agreements, and local laws. However, some general responsibilities that an absent freeholder may have include:- Collecting Ground Rent: The freeholder is typically...

Read more
Read by(22)

How many empty homes are there in the UK; government figures?

The latest figures (2022) show a huge increase in the number of long-term empty homes across every region in the UK. Government figures released in November 2022, show the number of long-term empty homes has risen by around 20,000 compared to last year. The number o...

Read more
Read by(22)

How is the case of Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] an important decision in UK caselaw that pertains to the duty of care owed by local authorities to protect children in foster care?

The case of Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] is an important decision in UK caselaw that pertains to the duty of care owed by local authorities to protect children in foster care.In this instance, a young girl named Poppy was placed in foster care under Sheffie...

Read more
Read by(22)

How much can council tax premiums be increased, and when will this change occur?

Local authorities in Wales have had the authority to impose council tax premiums of up to 100 percent since April 2017. From April 2023, this maximum premium will increase to 300 percent, indicating a more substantial financial incentive for property owners to take a...

Read more
Read by(22)

How much have solar panel prices dropped since 2010?

The prices of solar panels have dropped by over 88 percent since 2010. For a typical terraced house the installation cost is circa 10,000 and most likely would produce at least 50 percent of the energy required.

Read more
Read by(22)

What are the key transformations that building biology will bring to future homes?

Building biology will revolutionise home design by creating healthier living spaces, embracing sustainable construction practices, incorporating green spaces and biophilic design, fostering community connections, and integrating advanced technologies for energy effic...

Read more
Read by(22)

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(22)

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(21)

What is service charge?

Service Charge is the term used for the funds collected from lessees for day to day service charge items. It is collected on the due dates specified in the lease.

Read more
Read by(21)

What are the housing options available in Salford?

Salford offers many housing options, including apartments, terraced houses, semi-detached houses, and larger family homes. Rental and purchase options are available across various neighborhoods in the city.

Read more
Read by(21)

What are the consequences of not signing the Developer Remediation Contract 'DRC'?

Failure to sign the Developer Remediation Contract 'DRC' can lead to the developers being banned from commencing or completing developments in England. Developers who choose not to join or are expelled from the associated Responsible Actors Scheme (RAS) will be liste...

Read more
Read by(21)

Is it reasonable and valid of service charges charged by Marina Heights Limited?

Rita Akorita v Marina Heights Limited [2017] UKUT 255 (LC)SummaryThe case of Rita Akorita v Marina Heights Limited [2017] UKUT 255 entails a dispute between a lessee, Rita Akorita, and a freeholder, Marina Heights Limited, on service charges. The Upper Tribunal took ...

Read more
Read by(21)

Which are the best places to live in Manchester?

Some current hot spots for living in Manchester are Levenshulme, Chorlton, Deansgate, Salford Quays, and Castlefield, among others.

Read more
Read by(21)

Why are experts predicting a house price crash in the UK in 2023?

Rising mortgage rates are affecting the capability of people to buy a home even as property prices are falling steadily.

Read more
Read by(21)

What is an appropriate platform for the resident self-service feature?

A collaborative, integrated, user-friendly, and cloud-based technology portal is suitable for improving property management through a self-service platform.

Read more
Read by(21)

What are environmental strategies within the context of ESG?

Environmental strategies within the context of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) refer to the actions that companies take to address environmental risks and opportunities, and to promote sustainability and responsible resource use. These strategies can incl...

Read more
Read by(21)

We have a number of electric heaters in the common areas. The directors mindful of the costs of running such heaters wish to keep the heat level down. However some owners, and more often or not tenants wish the temperature to be higher. Has anyone had any experience of this and can recommend a minimum temperature.

the answer is it would be unlikely that the lease requires there to be heaters int he common parts 99% of blocks do not have heaters in the common parts if one were to choose what temperature they should be at I would suggest adopt the usual temperature level recomme...

Read more
Read by(20)

Are UK house prices and rental price affordability getting worse?

As of 2023, rental prices are becoming increasingly unaffordable for people with an average income in the UK. Fewer homes are available for rent now as compared to a decade ago.

Read more
Read by(20)

What to expect while living in Wembley?

Living in Wembley is a highly satisfying experience as it has many amenities and excellent transportation facilities. The food, music, and entertainment scene is buzzing too.

Read more
Read by(20)

Ask our Experts

What our customers are asking:


Who can be a director of a newly formed RTM company?

It is legally possible for the RTM to have one single director, but it's more common and effective for there to be between three and five directors, depending on the size of the block.


Read More

The future Management of your block after RTM 

On the Acquisition Date of your RTM Company, all existing management contracts end automatically unless otherwise agreed upon by the RTM Company in advance. Therefore, a prospective and vetted managing agent is ready BEFORE the Acquisition Date. The RTM Company will ...


Read More

What is the approximate cost to upgrade a property with an existing rating of D to EPC band B or C?

The cost of upgrading a property with an EPC rating of D to C could be as much as 6,000


Read More

why does The case of BDW Trading Ltd v South Anglia Housing Ltd enforcement a contract for the sale of land?

The case of BDW Trading Ltd v South Anglia Housing Ltd is a notable legal case that deals with the interpretation and enforcement of a contract for the sale of land and the consequences of a breach of contract.In this case, BDW Trading Ltd (the claimant) and South An...


Read More

This case brings out significant questions with respect to the statutory consultation requirements for major works under the Landlord and Tenant Act of 1985.

Daejan Investments Limited (Appellant) v Benson and Others [2013] UKSC 14SummaryThis case of Daejan Investments Limited, Appellant v Benson and others [2013] UKSC 14 brings out significant questions with respect to the statutory consultation requirements for major wo...


Read More

What is LVC or Land Value Capture?

Land value capture (LVC) involves capturing the increase in land value caused by public investment, planning decisions, or other factors and using this enhanced value to fund public infrastructure, affordable housing, or other community benefits.


Read More

The Agent is demanding 5,000 of me in July for a new roof, I have had no say over this what so ever, is this a correct way of dealing with things, can I then pay this in installments.

You do have a say, any demand over 250 for any 1 service charge payer must be subject to statutory section 20 consultation (up to 3 notices of 30 days each) the notices are 'statutory consultation' and you have 30 days to make observations, all such observations MUST...


Read More

What is the purpose of the RICS?

RICS – The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) represents the property profession in 146 countries, and regulates its ‘Chartered’ members. All valuations are subject to the RICS International Valuation Standards otherwise known as the ‘Red Book’.


Read More

What are BTR properties?

BTR or Build-to-Rent properties are residential properties purpose-built for rental purposes. They are designed with the needs of renters in mind and offer high-quality amenities and services. Build to Rent (BTR), a growing segment of the UK residential sector and i...


Read More

What changes have been made to the capital gains tax rules?

In the budget of October 2022, the UK government announced that capital gains tax allowance is being reduced by 50 percent. They apply to profits made from selling or disposing of an asset like a buy-to-let property or other asset of value.


Read More

What Will the Infrastructure Levy Replace?

The Infrastructure Levy will replace CIL, Section 106, and affordable housing contributions with a single flat-rate levy.


Read More

What are the responsibilities of an absent freeholder?

The responsibilities of an absent freeholder can vary depending on the specific circumstances, lease agreements, and local laws. However, some general responsibilities that an absent freeholder may have include:- Collecting Ground Rent: The freeholder is typically...


Read More

How many empty homes are there in the UK; government figures?

The latest figures (2022) show a huge increase in the number of long-term empty homes across every region in the UK. Government figures released in November 2022, show the number of long-term empty homes has risen by around 20,000 compared to last year. The number o...


Read More

How is the case of Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] an important decision in UK caselaw that pertains to the duty of care owed by local authorities to protect children in foster care?

The case of Oliver v Sheffield City Council [2017] is an important decision in UK caselaw that pertains to the duty of care owed by local authorities to protect children in foster care.In this instance, a young girl named Poppy was placed in foster care under Sheffie...


Read More

How much can council tax premiums be increased, and when will this change occur?

Local authorities in Wales have had the authority to impose council tax premiums of up to 100 percent since April 2017. From April 2023, this maximum premium will increase to 300 percent, indicating a more substantial financial incentive for property owners to take a...


Read More

How much have solar panel prices dropped since 2010?

The prices of solar panels have dropped by over 88 percent since 2010. For a typical terraced house the installation cost is circa 10,000 and most likely would produce at least 50 percent of the energy required.


Read More

What are the key transformations that building biology will bring to future homes?

Building biology will revolutionise home design by creating healthier living spaces, embracing sustainable construction practices, incorporating green spaces and biophilic design, fostering community connections, and integrating advanced technologies for energy effic...


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

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

What is service charge?

Service Charge is the term used for the funds collected from lessees for day to day service charge items. It is collected on the due dates specified in the lease.


Read More

What are the housing options available in Salford?

Salford offers many housing options, including apartments, terraced houses, semi-detached houses, and larger family homes. Rental and purchase options are available across various neighborhoods in the city.


Read More

What are the consequences of not signing the Developer Remediation Contract 'DRC'?

Failure to sign the Developer Remediation Contract 'DRC' can lead to the developers being banned from commencing or completing developments in England. Developers who choose not to join or are expelled from the associated Responsible Actors Scheme (RAS) will be liste...


Read More

Is it reasonable and valid of service charges charged by Marina Heights Limited?

Rita Akorita v Marina Heights Limited [2017] UKUT 255 (LC)SummaryThe case of Rita Akorita v Marina Heights Limited [2017] UKUT 255 entails a dispute between a lessee, Rita Akorita, and a freeholder, Marina Heights Limited, on service charges. The Upper Tribunal took ...


Read More

Which are the best places to live in Manchester?

Some current hot spots for living in Manchester are Levenshulme, Chorlton, Deansgate, Salford Quays, and Castlefield, among others.


Read More

Why are experts predicting a house price crash in the UK in 2023?

Rising mortgage rates are affecting the capability of people to buy a home even as property prices are falling steadily.


Read More

What is an appropriate platform for the resident self-service feature?

A collaborative, integrated, user-friendly, and cloud-based technology portal is suitable for improving property management through a self-service platform.


Read More

What are environmental strategies within the context of ESG?

Environmental strategies within the context of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) refer to the actions that companies take to address environmental risks and opportunities, and to promote sustainability and responsible resource use. These strategies can incl...


Read More

We have a number of electric heaters in the common areas. The directors mindful of the costs of running such heaters wish to keep the heat level down. However some owners, and more often or not tenants wish the temperature to be higher. Has anyone had any experience of this and can recommend a minimum temperature.

the answer is it would be unlikely that the lease requires there to be heaters int he common parts 99% of blocks do not have heaters in the common parts if one were to choose what temperature they should be at I would suggest adopt the usual temperature level recomme...


Read More

Are UK house prices and rental price affordability getting worse?

As of 2023, rental prices are becoming increasingly unaffordable for people with an average income in the UK. Fewer homes are available for rent now as compared to a decade ago.


Read More

What to expect while living in Wembley?

Living in Wembley is a highly satisfying experience as it has many amenities and excellent transportation facilities. The food, music, and entertainment scene is buzzing too.


Read More