The Service Charge Playbook
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

The Service Charge Playbook

There comes a point where the same issues appearing in different places stop looking like coincidence. When missing invoices, rising service charges, delayed responses, and legal escalation all begin to mirror each other across landlords, the question shifts. This is no longer about individual failures. It is about whether there is a system at work — one that tenants and residents have been calling out for some time, but which the housing establishment refuses to acknowledge.

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Do we need a Union?
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

Do we need a Union?

On Saturday 11th October, SHAC will host a national conversation about forming a Tenants and Residents Union — a movement that could shift the balance of power in UK housing. This blog explores that question head-on: from broken complaint systems and regulatory dead-ends, to the power of coming together, sharing knowledge, and fighting for fairer, safer homes. Whether you’re ready, unsure, or still finding your voice — this is the start of something bigger.

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Understanding Service Charge Strikes: A Growing Crisis in the Housing Sector
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

Understanding Service Charge Strikes: A Growing Crisis in the Housing Sector

The housing sector in the UK is facing a perfect storm. With ever-increasing service charges, poor repairs, and ongoing delays in maintenance, residents are being pushed to their limits. In Episode 21 of the Housing Sector Podcast, I sat down with Suz from the Social Housing Action Campaign (SHAC) to discuss this critical issue and the growing calls for service charge strikes. This blog explores what service charge strikes are, why they are being considered, and what they mean for residents and housing associations alike.

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Understanding Service Charges (again)…
Ben Jenkins Ben Jenkins

Understanding Service Charges (again)…

Service charges enable the maintenance and management of shared spaces within residential developments—in theory, at least. However, there is a growing concern regarding service charge abuse, leaving many residents questioning the fairness and transparency of these fees. Service charges should reflect the services provided, from cleaning and maintenance to utility costs and repairs. Yet when these agreements are mismanaged, residents bear the burden of rising costs for inadequate services. When services aren’t delivered, leaving residents to pay for something they don’t receive, one could call it fraud. With little oversight, these charges are increasing to levels that are making affordable housing quickly become unaffordable.

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