Paying £28 weekly service charge on a house expenditure seems unreasonable

[Deleted User]

The description suggests that Peabody are not the freeholder, and they are passing on charges from the freeholder/management company of the development.
“External Management agent fees - £25.70"
It does seem high though, particularly for a rented property, and one not part of a block. But the devil is in the detail.

Chrono36

So, as I thought, Peabody are no longer responding. I asked for further information regarding the EMA fees and invoices for evidence. Which I think they’re legally obligated to provide?

Anyway, they sent me the same letter by post with no explanation. The last email they sent was on the 27th of June saying they will chase this up with their “property accounts team”. I’ve asked for a response to my request but have gotten nothing from them at all.

Where do I go from here?

Brie

I'd be sending them a letter saying you are disputing the charge as they are unwilling to provide a detailed breakdown.

Chrono36

Yes that sounds like a good idea 

Titus_Wadd

Best of luck and thank you for reporting back.

AdrianC

Chrono36 said:

So, as I thought, Peabody are no longer responding. I asked for further information regarding the EMA fees and invoices for evidence. Which I think they’re legally obligated to provide?

To your mother, yes.

To you, no - unless you have provided them with a copy of a registered PoA or she has provided her explicit written permission for them to deal with you.

theartfullodger

So move somewhere she'll be happy with the charges.

Pok3mon

Just a quick thought, the area does not have cladding does it? Since Grenfell people are having to employ fire watch and proving very expensive. 

Chrono36

Titus_Wadd said:

Best of luck and thank you for reporting back.

Thank you.

Pok3mon said:

Just a quick thought, the area does not have cladding does it? Since Grenfell people are having to employ fire watch and proving very expensive. 

I’m actually not sure tbh. I feel as though they still need to explain the fees regardless.

mumbythesea

Send an email and start it with please take this email as a formal complaint , go through the complaints procedure , if you dont get the answer you want take them to the housing ombusman they wont like that .