Cyclical Decorations will kill all my saving efforts

sarah_elton

My block sounds similar to yours - it's three storeys (ground, first, second), two flats per floor.

Our service charge is £68/month and this includes an allocation to the sinking fund for our external/internal communal decorating, which is done every 4-5 years.

Sounds like the block is quite new - is it that the sinking fund isn't big enough this time but will be next? I.e. it's £1,500 this time but in all future times the sinking fund will cover it?

Scaffolding will be necessary due to the building height - I changed my windows to uPVC double glazing and being top floor had to pay for scaffolding as well.

I doubt they'll let you paint them yourself as they'll be worried about work quality. I believe you have a right to see the quotes and find alternatives yourself to suggest.

sarah_elton

Tarostar wrote: »

and internal chemical cleaning of the windows (I'll clean my windows on the inside myself thank you very much)!!!

I'm not sure they mean the inside of your windows do they? I would expect them only to be responsible for the outside of all windows, and the inside of windows in the communal areas...

sooz

Tarostar wrote: »

You are good, I'm glad I posted here. Thanks! Just wish I'd done so last year.

They did indeed send this as a Section 20 notice of intention in June 2008. They included a list of the intended works and a form with a box for Nominated Contractor and for comments. At the time I had lived in the building for just over six months and assumed that most of the cost would be covered by the sinking fund or that the other tenants would speak up if something was amiss. I realise now that this was a mistake and I should have done my research then.

They again sent a section 20 notice now, but it does not contain any box for nominating a different contractor, just for comments. I guess I need to speak with LEASE, but I have a sinking feeling that the ship has sailed.

June 08???

I think that ship has sailed, several times
Have a look back at the original paperwork from then. Did it include a summary of your rights & obligations (it's in a set format).
Is there an end date for consultation?
Write a note to your neighbours, & see if anyone else responded during the consultation period, & if anyone else got any quotes.
If all else fails, atleast you will know for next time!

Fire_Fox

Any update on this?