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.
The Impact of using Communication Plans to Silence Residents
Communication is a critical component of any healthy relationship, and this is especially true in the context of housing, where residents rely on effective communication with their providers to ensure a safe, comfortable, and secure living environment. Communication plans are often developed by housing providers to outline the strategies, goals, and objectives for effective communication with residents.
Unfortunately, some housing providers have been accused of using communication plans to limit or even silence resident voices. When communication plans are used as a tool to suppress resident feedback and limit communication channels, the impact on residents can be severe. Silencing residents can create a lack of trust, a sense of helplessness, and can result in serious health and safety risks.