leasehold question - major works

kjl26

Hi there,
I own a leasehold flat and have heard that our freeholder plans major works on the property at the cost of around 7K per flat. (At the moment this isn't even at the formal notice stage, we only know because the sale of another flat in the building has fallen through due to the potential purchasers finding out.)
In principle I'm more or less happy with the idea as there is no doubt that some work needs doing. I have looked up all the info with the leasehold advisory service on the consultation process etc., and think I have a decent grasp of it and our rights now, but for one thing - does anyone know whether we would have to pay the whole 7K at once? i.e. does it get added on to the service charge for a single year, or is it spread over a number of years? (NB the lease states that the freeholder is meant to operate a sinking fund, but they don't.)
Thanks in advance for any help you can give (and sorry if it's a stupid question!).
Katie

cattie

I think you'll find that you are expected to pay the whole amount when invoiced for the works with most leasehold properties.

The exception may be if it's an ex council property as I believe then you are given the opportunity to pay in installments

The best thing to do would be to enquire with the freeholder/managing agents for a definitive answer.

kjl26

Thanks very much - I thought that might be the case. It's not ex-council; I'll have a word with the managing agents to confirm.