Character reference needed

Findyourbacon

I'm receiving ownership of a property via a Deed of Variation.  The property is a leasehold flat and the management company have asked for proof that I can meet the service charge, which I can demonstrate from my bank account.  They've also asked for 2 character references to show that I'm dependable and I can meet the service charge.  I think these could be a friend or employer.  Has anyone else been asked for something similar when taking on a leasehold property, either through purchase or through transfer?

I've not been in this situation before, but it seems excessive to me!

user1977

Sounds utterly bizarre. How does your "character" indicate whether you can afford the service charge? You can be of excellent character and have no money...

What does the lease say (if anything) about these requirements?

Bendy_House

I'll vouch for you, pal.

(PM'd bank details.)

Findyourbacon

user1977 said:

Sounds utterly bizarre. How does your "character" indicate whether you can afford the service charge? You can be of excellent character and have no money...

What does the lease say (if anything) about these requirements?

Exactly my thinking!  I haven't seen the lease yet, as it's still going through the tail end of the probate process, but I will ask my solicitors.  Thanks 

SallyDucati

What are they going to do if they think any purchaser is 'not of good character'?  
Never heard of a management company being able to prevent a sale!

sheramber

SallyDucati said:

What are they going to do if they think any purchaser is 'not of good character'?  
Never heard of a management company being able to prevent a sale!

It is not a sale. The OP is inheriting it.  Not much they can do to stop that.

thegreenone

I now have images of 'The Brigadier' checking you out on arrival to 'see if you past muster'.

How odd.  

theartfullodger

Findyourbacon said:

................. They've also asked for 2 character references to show that I'm dependable and I can meet the service charge.................

Not needed by Johnson to be PM nor currently for whoever to be UK head of state. 'sfunny old world... 

I'd be inclined to agree, subject to whoever is asking to provide 2 character references stating they can be trusted to look after your & other leaseholders funds...  probably overall quite a lot... 

Will you get a share/vote over the freehold??

YoungBlueEyes

Jeez that sounds a bit much! 

Could you write to them with something like - I have 2 graphically honest character refs, and 3 years bank statements (replete with juicy bits) sat here waiting to go. Please send me similar for all current staff of the ManCo. I like to know who I’m dealing with, and that you’re sufficiently dependable and hard-working to receive my few miserable groats. 

Yours in anticipation etc etc. 

Actually, if I’d made sure that legally they couldn’t stop the DofV, I’d send them this letter. But then I’m like that. You gotta take your fun where you find it! 

TBG01

Deed of Variation? For transferring a property? Ermmm who's doing the conveyancing? 

Findyourbacon

TBG01 said:

Deed of Variation? For transferring a property? Ermmm who's doing the conveyancing? 

I've got a solicitor doing all the legal stuff