Initiating leasehold block improvements

cashbackproblems

hi


I recently bought a leasehold flat which has a management company who maintain the block, collect service charges etc. However the block is not in the best state, the stairway windows are all rotten, walls need painting, stained carpets, entrance door just pushes open etc.


I am about to email the company to enquire about this, but who would typically decide on any improvements and initiate it? there are 14 flats and a sinking fund. Does the company have an obligation to make these improvements?


thanks

eddddy

Most leases work this way:

The lease says what the freeholder must do (e.g. maintain the common areas). In your case, it sounds like the freeholder has asked a managing agent to do everything on the freeholder's behalf.

If the freeholder/agent aren't doing what it says in the lease, I guess you could take a 'soft' or a 'hard' approach.

A 'soft' approach might be to ask them about the maintenance plan for the stuff you mention.

A 'hard' approach might be to tell them they are in breach of the lease, and quote the relevant clauses at them.

Bear in mind...

You use the word 'improvement'. That's the wrong word. Use the words 'repair', 'maintain' and 'replace' (or whatever words the lease uses).

You and the other leaseholders will have to pay for this work (either through the sinking fund or directly).