As the Financial Conduct Authorities new regulations with regards to multi-occupancy residential buildings insurance come into effect, leaseholders will be given new levels of clarity. The new rules kick in from 31st December 2023 and bring with them a few…

For most leaseholders, frustration has been felt at the cost of insurance being added to service charge bills with little or no control over the choice of policy being afforded to the bill payer. From the 31st December 2023, this…

There’s a new world on the horizon for the residential buildings insurance industry. From 31st December 2023, the Financial Conduct Authority has updated its rules surrounding the treatment of leaseholders across the sector. Their rules mean that leaseholders will now…

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) released the Policy Statement and Final Rules on the 29th of September 2023 following review of multi-occupancy insurance with changes made effective from the 31st of December 2023. In the world of insurance, transparency and…

Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill – Analysis and Reaction From The Property Institute.

Millions of homeowners in England and Wales will be given greater rights, powers, and protections over their homes as part of the most significant reforms to the leasehold system for a generation under the new Bill. 

Principle Estate Management has recruited two senior property directors with a total of nearly 20 years of experience in the sector between them.

The question of who is responsible for the maintenance and repair of flat front doors for ensuring fire safety is a question that arises often.

The announcement of a Leasehold Bill could bring good news for property valuers, conveyancers and the 4.9 million homeowners in England and Wales under with leases – or it could fuel confusion, cost and controversy.

The Flat Living Magazine theme for November reminded us of a survey we undertook some time ago, where the importance of an individual’s attitude to maintenance was starkly drawn into context.

The proposal for a Leasehold and Freehold Bill in the King’s Speech on 7 November 2023 demonstrates an ongoing and determined commitment by the government to reform of the residential leasehold sector – and for leaseholders and freeholders, there are immediate questions and considerations.

Serving as an officer of a Residents’ Management Company, Residents Association, or Right to Manage Company comes with a host of legal responsibilities. These responsibilities can extend to potential personal liability for the decisions and actions taken while holding the…

In this article, broadband provider 4th Utility explains why routine maintenance is crucial for the performance of broadband speeds,

As we enter the colder months, Residents’ Management Companies are likely preparing for the winter season and considering their plans for the coming year. Annual maintenance plans serve as a crucial foundation for organising maintenance tasks and ensuring you meet…

Owning a property has its benefits but it also comes with significant responsibility. To protect your building and to ensure a claim-free property, regular cleaning, maintenance and repairs are essential. In this article, we will explore the importance of keeping…

Managing maintenance, repairs and cleaning is a multifaceted role that requires a delicate balance of organisational skills, effective communication, and a keen understanding of client expectations. In the realm of property management, ensuring the upkeep of the property is not…

Did you know that a staggering 85% of buildings in the UK contain asbestos, a naturally occurring material that was once the go-to choice for construction until 2000? Its popularity was largely due to its exceptional heat resistance and durability.…

Andrew Bulmer said: For far too long leaseholders have had to deal with a complex and out-dated system that often doesn’t work well for them.

B-hive ensures that you can focus on what you do best, while ensuring compliance and growth in your block management journey.

Leasehold reform and Renters’ Rights are at the heart of the King’s Speech today- comments from Irwin Mitchell.

Winter brings many joys, from cosy evenings spent by the fireplace or relaxing with family to the beauty of snow-covered landscapes. However, it also introduces challenges, with one of the most pressing being freezing cold temperatures leading to burst pipes.…

As we approach the colder months, it’s time for flat owners to shift their focus to winter preparations. Concerns about heating, potential leaks, and dampness become top priorities. To ensure you’re ready, here’s a reminder of proactive steps you can…

Winter is round the corner and the fear of frozen pipe season is getting real. Most people will have dealt with or know someone who has dealt with the fallout from a frozen pipe that has burst. It is a…

Maintenance and repair budgeting plays a crucial role in property management, guaranteeing well-maintained properties, satisfied residents, and minimized unexpected expenses. Here, we offer advice on how to plan your budget effectively for the year ahead. Nevertheless, having a well-prepared plan…

Hot on the heels of the successful and inaugural Manchester event on 28 September, Proper Talk returns, this time in central London for a breakfast session on 6 December.

An additional 70 new residential units available to rent will be created at Stockdale House; the fifth and largest building on the site.

Industry-First Public Hub Now Serves as a Comprehensive Source of Current Building Safety Guidance in England. This month marked the commencement of many regulations for the ‘in-occupation’ phase of the Building Safety Act 2022. To support the industry in the…

A smart development of more than 50 apartments and houses on land in Bristol, where now-demolished council housing once stood, is to be looked after by Principle Estate Management. Shackleton Heights is a new collection of two, three and four-bedroomed…

Following recent success in the Legal 500 listings, JB Leitch receives further accreditation in the Chambers Rankings for 2024.

The Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill (“the Bill”) is making its way through the final stages of the legislative process.

The Bilston property is just one of 170 lots that are appearing in Bond Wolfe’s next auction, which will start at 9am on Thursday 26 October. 

In the ever-evolving world of block management, staying ahead of the curve and delivering exceptional service to clients is paramount.

On the 6th of October, leasehold professionals from across the industry gathered at the highly anticipated ARMA Conference, transforming it into a bustling hub of insights, networking opportunities, and innovation.

Drone. Thermal. Rope Access. Leak Tracing. Time-lapse. Earl Kendrick Project & Building Consultancy is proud to unveil EK Specialist Surveys, a next-generation, integrated survey service offering state-of-the-art solutions to building owners and managers. The business of surveying is changing. Building…

As well as covering legal costs, Directors & Officers Liability Insurance also extends towards the entity company itself.

In the realm of block and property management, particularly in the leasehold sector, complaints are inevitable. As a block management company who abide by the Code of Conduct of both The Institute of Residential Property Management (IRPM) and the Royal…

In the heart of London, Leasehold professionals gathered at the ARMA Conference on 6 October 2023, for a day of legislation changes, networking, and innovation.

The Residentsline team is elated to announce their successful fundraising effort during their recent Macmillan Coffee Morning The event, a delightful gathering filled with coffee and cakes, brought together team members and supporters of Residentsline. Happening on the 29th September,…

The latest rankings for the Legal 500 have been released and once again Liverpool’s specialist property law firm JB Leitch hold a high position amongst the region’s leading legal experts. Acknowledged as the world’s largest independent legal referral guide, the rankings…

An overview of the structure and parameters of the Tribunals and pathways of escalation and appeal typically used by applicants and appellants in leasehold disputes.

In an increasingly digital world, customer feedback is vital to businesses now more than ever. Most potential customers have reviews at their fingertips, heavily influencing whether they choose to shop with you or your competitors. Earlier this year, full fibre…

Exploring how technology is transforming property management, with a focus on our innovative solution: Fire Safety Information (FSI) posters and resident engagement reporting through QR codes.

ARMA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023 Date/Time: Friday 6th October 2023, 09:15 – 17:00 Venue: 133 Houndsditch, EC3A 7BX, London The programme for the 2023 ARMA Annual Conference is out now! Book today – Discounted tickets for ARMA & IRPM members. Expect: View the full…

Lifts are an essential part of many residential blocks, providing access to upper floors for residents of all ages and abilities. However, lifts can also be a source of complaints and disputes, particularly when they are not properly maintained. Some…

This month I have been asked to discuss ‘disputes’ in the realm of landlord and tenant law. Simply put: where would you like to start?

Colin Stokes, the MD of adiuvo; looks at Customer Complaints and how it can be a positive process.

The FCA has confirmed new measures to support leaseholders in the multi-occupancy buildings insurance market. From the new year, insurance firms will be forced to act in leaseholders’ best interests, treat leaseholders as customers when designing products and will be…

Landlords have a legal obligation to keep their properties in a habitable condition, meaning they must repair any defects.

The team at London Flats Insurance explore common security concerns of residents in blocks of flats and the steps that you can take to create a secure living environment for leaseholders. Managing a block of flats brings with it a…

The owners of a collection of 39 premium apartments near to Kensington Gardens in central London have praised Principle Estate Management for its high-quality external refurbishment works. Principle’s project focused on timber repairs to rotten windows, redecoration of all windows,…

Exploring strategies for open communication, initiating feedback mechanisms, and improving overall resident-management interactions.

Flat Living Insurance team explores community activities for a positive living environment and less resident conflicts. When you’re managing a residential block of flats, you will inevitably need to mediate a neighbourly dispute or two. It’s almost inevitable, what with…

Exploring the importance of timely repairs in blocks of flats and how maintenance management plays a pivotal role in conflict prevention.

Valuable insights and practical advice from Residentsline on how flat owners can take proactive measures to prevent disputes. Prevention is always better than the cure. This old adage is absolutely correct when it comes to leasehold living. Neighbours living side…

RMCs are being urged to ensure fire risk assessments are carried out at their apartment blocks as new regulations come into force.

Odevo, the fast growing international property management group, strengthens its UK presence as The Vegner Group joins.

Advice on Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) The extent to which Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is present in residential buildings and the risk levels presented is currently unclear, and we appreciate that media coverage, conflicting reports and misinformation may…

In the face of escalating climate change, governments worldwide are taking decisive steps to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of global warming.

Niche Living, owner, and operator of Ireland’s first purpose built co-living development in Dun Laoghaire, South Dublin, has partnered with Spike to utilise its market-leading resident engagement portal, Spike Living.

A former Kidderminster office block named after Margaret Thatcher, with planning permission to be turned into homes and shops, is among the star lots in Bond Wolfe’s livestreamed auction on Thursday 14 September. Originally built in the late 1970s to…

A 71 bedroom apartment development in Redhill, Surrey, has come on to the market. This was after the company behind Furness House was placed into administration. Watling Real Estate and Csquared have been instructed by joint administrators Georgina Eason and…

A new survey by Go.Compare Home Insurance has revealed that the most important trait in a neighbour, according to 71% of Brits, is being quiet and peaceful.[] The insurance comparison site asked respondents what they believe makes a good neighbour, along with…

Exploring the circumstances under which an application for dispensation from consultation under Section 20 of the LTA 1985 can be considered suitable.

Earl Kendrick support’s DEBRA UK, The Butterfly Skin Charity, a national charity for people living with genetic skin blistering condition, epidermolysis bullosa (EB).

Belinda Bagnall explores the significance of Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance for your Residents’ Management Company.

Using contractors may be very routine for your company, but this doesn’t mean that accidents and health and safety incidents cannot occur.

The specialist building safety team at JB Leitch provide an overview of the relationship between the process for undertaking major works and the new building safety regime… As readers will no doubt be aware, the main legislation relating to building…

Written by Gareth Lomax – Director of Ardent Lift Consultancy Further to our previous articles on major works, most notably the South London project we oversaw in 2022-23 (Flat Living article, Ardent Case Study), we wanted to identify the other…

Major works in leasehold flats can have a profound impact on the lives of residents, spanning from financial implications to emotional stress and the overall sense of community. These significant renovations or repairs, often involving the building’s structure, systems, or…

As every good property manager knows, you are managing people as much as bricks and mortar, therefore you need to be mindful of the fact that you’re turning leaseholders’ homes into a building site.

“The levying of service charges by landlords under leases of residential property in respect of their expenditure upon repairs and the provision of other services has for long been controversial.”

Enter B-hive Block Management Partners, a game-changing solution that offers a modern twist to the traditional business model

Colin Stokes, MD of adiuvo, looks at trends in out of hours Property Maintenance.  Insights from 2021 to 2022.

In this article, we delve into the significance of major works and service charges, what they entail, and how they impact residents.

Future Fuel EV Connected bridges the gap between new build developers and the Electric Vehicle chargers they are obligated to install, and the property managers and residents that inherit them. Future Group are firmly established as multi-manufacturer-approved EV specialists and…

Inclusivity extends beyond mere accommodation; it involves creating environments that allow all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Andrew Bulmer, Appointed Help Champion Competence Across the Industry on Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) New Committee.

When a block of flats requires significant maintenance work, property managers can swiftly find themselves overwhelmed with tasks. Such complex and unpredictable major projects often keep everyone on their toes. This makes it all too easy to forget to focus…

It’s important for residents and managers of leasehold blocks of flats to understand major works and the Section 20 procedure.

Carrying out substantial works on or in blocks of flats for the purposes of essential maintenance, large-scale improvements or safety compliance can be a complicated and time-consuming task. Following the right procedures according to the lease and the section 20…

Anyone managing a block of flats must be aware of the Work at Height Regulations of and their obligations re adhering to the regulations.

Communal cleaning companies can offer benefits to a community or shared living space, it is important that you employ for the right block.

The Block Recruit is delighted to introduce you all to our newest team member, Posy Spencer!

Belinda Bagnall details some claims that have been incepted on Directors and Officers Liability Insurance policies.

In this guide, we will delve into all things freehold, covering its definition, benefits, and other considerations.

By partnering with B-hive, you align your business with a company that understands the future and how to succeed in it.

If you and your fellow leaseholders have decided to take the plunge and collectively purchase the freehold of your building, your first question will likely be “how much will this cost?”. It’s a fair question, but not an easy one…

A credit controller at Principle Estate Management painted a total of five pictures for the company’s headquarters in Birmingham.

Much of the discussion around the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022 has been focussed on the effects for current leaseholders. Obviously, the reforms have been brought in to increase protections for those living in leasehold properties (around 20% of…

Recent leasehold reform is making it simpler and more financially achievable for leaseholders to buy a share of their freehold. If you’re an existing leaseholder and would like to know more about what buying a share of the freehold of…

This article will explore the key duties and obligations that new freeholders must be aware of under the Building Safety Act 2022.

Multiple-occupancy buildings need varying cover depending on their construction, the number of flats and the amenities involved as well as the usual factors such as building age, current safety measures and location. Navigating the intricacies of this business is best…

JB Leitch were successful in a preliminary decision concerning a question which arises following the coming into force of new provisions in the Building Safety Act 2022.

It is important to understand that purchasing the freehold in the context of a block of flats is a collective action rather than an individual right. There are two main ways in which leaseholders can buy their freeholds, either in…

Exploring the concept of buying your freehold as a leaseholder, the advantages it brings, and the steps involved in this process.

When you hear the term ‘reinstatement cost assessment’ most people only consider underinsurance, but what about overinsurance?

Fraser Allen Estate Management, a leading innovator in Block Management, is thrilled to announce the launch of their brand-new website,

The long overdue opportunity to access funding for remediation projects targeting unsafe cladding in buildings ranging from 11 to 18 meters in height has finally arrived.

When looking at buying your Freehold, the building lift is probably not on your list of concerns, but it needs to be considered.

I have written about what steps can be taken to mitigate out of hours emergencies but in this piece we examine the numbers involved.