Forced maintenance charge by my freeholder?

Forced maintenance charge by my freeholder?

by Readers Question

Guest Author

0:01 AM, 28th June 2024, About 6 days ago 13

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Hi, I have a top floor 1 bed flat in a Victorian house converted into 8 flats.

The freeholders who have issued to me all the correct section paperwork, obtained quotes for the rear garden (totally run down, overlooked and rarely used due to poor access) to be cleared and paved and for a new roof (which is old and has some slight damp patches)

The total bill per flat is £9,500 and I do not have this sort of money! The freeholders are now threatening to sue me for non-payment, claiming I am in breach of contract – can they do this and can I get help to pay?

With low return due to high mortgage costs and a period of no tenants I made little last year and nothing this year on the flat. Other landlords are now blaming me for delays in the work!

Any advise greatly appreciated.

Jonathan


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Comments

Graham Bowcock

11:12 AM, 30th June 2024, About 4 days ago

Reply to the comment left by Tom Jenkin at 29/06/2024 - 16:00
I can't answer for the OP, but where we manage blocks we always set up a sinking fund. It enables us to do repairs without worrying about cash and adds value to the flats when they are sold.

Unfortunately, with current cash pressures on people, many dislike a monthly service charge that includes a sinking fund. This is particularly a problem for landlords who may be tight on profit.

Bear in mind, though, that having a sinking fund does not absolve the freeholder form having to use s20 when required.

Tuly

20:04 PM, 30th June 2024, About 3 days ago

Hi
Best is to do a RTM and take away the management from the freeholder. So you can do the works your self and save alot..

Kizzie

7:43 AM, 1st July 2024, About 3 days ago

RTM or RMC the obligations in the lease must by law be still complied with and also director obligations under the Articles as company registered at Companies House as limited liability to protect the property held in trust and comply with Companies Act Trust Law and HMRC

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