Is the management company responsible?

hammersuk

Long story short if I can.

I own a leasehold flat in a block of 4.

We pay monthly maintenance and building insurance each month as well as ground rent.

A year ago I had leaks in the loft that came through into my bathroom. (Just to qualify, we are the top floor of the flats so roof above us)

I rung the managing agents who denied any roof problems and promptly fobbed me off.

Anyway things dried up until a couple of months ago and more rain and leaks.

This time the MA sent someone up on the roof and found a problem that they were dealing with ASAP.

They now say it may be after xmas before they can get it fixed AND that any damage to my loft or ceilings below (which are now very damp, soft and will need sorting out) are my responsibility as they are inside the property.

So in other words they say they will fix the roof but not my loft or internal ceilings.

My argument is the loft and ceiling are damaged because of their negligence.

Who is in the right and can I threaten them legally if they do not fix the roof asap!

I worry if there is anymore rain my ceiling may spring a major leak and hole!!!

Alan_M_2

Initially I would approach buildings insurance company which will be organised by your Management company and paid for in the service fees/ground rent.

If no joy there approach your own contents insurer and provide them details of the building insurer and let them get on with it.

You have the right, in fact you're obliged to undertake emergency repairs to mitigate the damage.

hammersuk

Thanks


I was also wondering wether it may be worth getting in contact with the landlord direct and letting him know the agents are dragging their heels and being obstructive.

phill99

I deal with this thing quite regularly. Alan M is right. The Management company should be sorting out the roof. However, the damage to your ceiling is a claim against the buildings insurance on the block. Don't be told otherwise by the management company. This will cover any replacement plasterboard, plaster skimming, redecoration and replacement of any loft insulation that has become wet.however, I'm not sure your contents insurers will act on your behalf and deal with the buildings insurers for you.

hammersuk

Hi thanks for your response. So as a course of action, the management say they will fix the roof asap so shall I let them do that and then let them know i'll be getting my contents insurers to claim against them?

Just want to make sure I approach this right. Not afraid to tell them I will contact the landlord direct either.