Paying up front for section 20 work

m0bov

Hi, we are share of freehold. Every 3 years we have external decoration work. The freehold company do an S20. However we are charged for the work as part of our service charge. The estimate the cost, there is no provision for a sink fund in my lease 

Does this sound unlawful?

James

anselld

Doesn't seem to be a problem so long as the section 20 process is followed and the service charge is adjusted in due course in line with the outcome of the section 20 quotations and consultations.

eddddy

Taking a step back - what is the problem that you are wanting to address? Is the work done badly? Are the decorators paid too much? Do you think that every 3 years is too often?

Or are you happy with the work, but looking for a legal loophole to avoid paying?

NameUnavailable

m0bov said:

Hi, we are share of freehold. Every 3 years we have external decoration work. The freehold company do an S20. However we are charged for the work as part of our service charge. The estimate the cost, there is no provision for a sink fund in my lease 

Does this sound unlawful?

James

Not sure what the problem is?

The lease requires you to redecorate outside every 3 years. You have to pay for your share of those works whatever way it's handled. S20 is required for works over a certain value, that's the legal process the freeholder has to comply with. As that is (in part) yourself you also have some say in who is used to do the work.

Again, what exactly is it that you're not happy with?