How to approach Roof costs with other Free Holders

zipp

Hi Everyone,
We've just bought a flat with share of freehold.
We knew that there would be a lot of work needed on the roof and it appears that the bill might be in the region of 15- 20k

We share the freehold with another couple who we haven't yet met.
We don't plan on doing the work immediately and don't wish to introduce ourselves as the new neighbours and then present the fact that we'll be needing to share a hefty roof bill at some point!

However, the lease states that the roof is a shared concern, so we will need to approach them at some point.
Has anyone had any experience of sharing costs with their other freeholders?

We were thinking that setting up a sinking fund is the best option but are concerned that a sinking fund is just a general fund which could be used for other costs.

We don't want to suggest a sinking fund and then end up having to pay for the roof and pay into a sinking fund on top of that large expense.

Should we just get the roof fixed and then approach the other freeholders sensitively and ask them to pay their half of the amount (in installments if they wish) as and when they are able

Is their any protocol in these matters?

Any advice much appreciated

Many Thanks
Zipp

ValHaller

The relevant expertise for this question is on the Housing forum http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/forumdisplay.php?f=16

I suggest you repost your question there - and that you come back here and edit your opening post to say you have posted elsewhere