Understanding Service Charges (again)…
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

Understanding Service Charges (again)…

Service charges enable the maintenance and management of shared spaces within residential developments—in theory, at least. However, there is a growing concern regarding service charge abuse, leaving many residents questioning the fairness and transparency of these fees. Service charges should reflect the services provided, from cleaning and maintenance to utility costs and repairs. Yet when these agreements are mismanaged, residents bear the burden of rising costs for inadequate services. When services aren’t delivered, leaving residents to pay for something they don’t receive, one could call it fraud. With little oversight, these charges are increasing to levels that are making affordable housing quickly become unaffordable.

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Section 20 - Why it matters, why it should be followed, and what to do when it isn’t.
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

Section 20 - Why it matters, why it should be followed, and what to do when it isn’t.

This blog explores Section 20 of the UK's Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which requires landlords to consult with tenants before spending money above a certain amount on major works or service charges. Here we discusses the steps landlords must take to adhere to Section 20 guidelines, as well as the repercussions for landlords who fail to comply. It also includes a case study of a housing provider that failed to follow the guidelines and the actions taken by the tenant to challenge the provider's compliance. The blog concludes with advice for tenants who believe their landlords are not following Section 20 guidelines and how they can challenge them in the First-Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

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