Understanding the Service Charge Residential Management Code - A Guide for Landlords and Residents
The Service Charge Residential Management Code, now in its third edition and published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), is a vital resource designed to enhance the management of service charges in residential properties in England. This Code is approved by the Secretary of State and outlines best practices that promote transparency, fairness, and accountability between landlords and leaseholders.
This article aims to clarify key aspects of the Code for both landlords and residents, offering insights into their respective roles, rights, and responsibilities.
The ASB Issue
Antisocial behaviour (ASB) in social housing is a deeply challenging issue that affects not just individuals but entire communities. It’s a problem that many residents feel powerless to solve, while housing providers often struggle to find effective ways to manage it. As someone who approaches every topic with an open mind and a lack of prior expertise, I’ve learned that the best way to truly understand complex issues like ASB is by talking to people—asking questions, listening to their experiences, and seeking out perspectives from all sides.
Rent & Service (miss)charges
Over the past year, numerous UK social housing providers have been implicated in overcharging residents for rent and service charges. These issues have led to significant financial burdens for tenants, prompting widespread frustration and complaints.
Already considered an ever-increasing cost that spirals further out of control year on year, residents now have to question if they are being illegally overcharged or if these costs are simply being mismanaged. One thing we can all ponder is whether this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Thou Shalt Not Speak
Freedom of speech is a core pillar of democratic societies, essential for healthy discourse and driving societal progress. It is the bedrock upon which diverse opinions can clash, ideas can be challenged, and innovation can flourish. Without the ability to freely express our thoughts and beliefs, our collective capacity for growth and understanding is severely hindered.
From Ponzi Schemes to Strikes - Is This Really The Current State of Social Housing?
In recent weeks, concerns have surfaced regarding the financial health of certain housing associations, my own landlord included, prompting discussions about their management practices and the implications for residents and communities.
Service Charge Strikes will follow…
ICT Challenges and Opportunities for Small and Large Housing Providers - By Tony Smith
This blog post was written by Tony Smith, known as 'That Housing IT Guy'. With extensive experience spanning nearly fourteen years in consultancy dedicated to Social Housing ICT solutions, Tony offers valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the housing sector.
In this blog, he sheds light on the importance of technology adoption across housing providers of varying scales, examining the transformative potential of technology within the domain of social housing provision, particularly for smaller-scale stakeholders.
Service Charge Factor - The straw to break the camel's back?
With the start of the new financial year, residents of affordable and shared ownership homes have been sent their service charge bills, with many of us being dismayed at the hike in fees. Service charges are often a bone of contention; many of us dispute the value for money we receive for this charge when, more often than not, services are woefully neglected.
Another Three Updates In Under Five Minutes.
Another 3 updates in under 5 minutes, The Housing Sector, GreenSquareAccord Residents, and BJ Brandify. Drop in service, new tech, new blogs, legal updates, advocate support and more in under three minutes! Happy Easter all X
The Rise of the Smaller Housing Providers and The Benefits Therein
With more and more concerns raised daily as larger housing providers fail due to a loss of focus and ability to provide homes that are warm, safe, and dry, as they grapple with the weight of their own expansion. The challenges of maintaining vast stocks amidst organisational strains, disconnected staff who no longer feel part of a worthy team, but rather now just a payroll number, and with legacy systems unable to connect with the multiple CRM systems and outdated Excel spreadsheets. As repairs go unresolved and community connections fray, a compelling opportunity arises for smaller housing providers to step into the breach and restore faith in the sector and once again create a service that we can all be proud of.
Most Common Types of Disputes to Arise Between Landlords & Tenants
Disputes between landlords and tenants can sometimes arise, leading to tensions and challenges that need to be addressed. This is something that is common in the industry but there are many reasons why disputes arise. Whether it's regarding rent payments, property maintenance, or lease terms, these conflicts can often be complex and require careful navigation to resolve.
Swansea solicitors and other professionals can play a crucial role in mediating such disputes and providing legal guidance to both parties involved. This article aims to explore some of the most common types of disputes that can occur between landlords and tenants in the UK, shedding light on the rights, responsibilities, and potential solutions for each party.
A Guide to Resolving Common Housing Disputes with Neighbours
When we look at residential living, neighbourly disputes are a common occurrence, often arising from issues like noise disturbances, property boundaries, or shared amenities. Seeking guidance from experts, such as Blackheath solicitors and mediators, can provide tailored advice to help resolve such conflicts effectively.
Resolving neighbourly conflicts requires tact and diplomacy. This article aims to offer practical advice on addressing typical disputes, covering common issues like noise disturbances, property boundaries, and shared amenities.
By providing actionable steps and potential mediation methods, it aims to foster better relationships within residential communities.
Dealing with Boundary Disputes in Residential Areas
In residential areas, boundary disputes can quickly escalate into contentious conflicts between neighbours, requiring careful navigation and often legal intervention to resolve.
When disputes arise over property lines, fences, or shared spaces, solicitors in Chichester and surrounding areas can offer invaluable guidance and legal expertise to address the issue effectively.
This article aims to provide insights into the complexities of boundary disputes, including legal considerations, communication strategies with neighbours, and potential mediation or legal avenues for resolution.
GreenSquareAccord's latest Governance Failure
GreenSquareAccord's recent credit rating downgrade by Moody’s exposes glaring deficiencies in its governance and financial management. Led by CEO Ruth Cooke, the organisation faces mounting criticism for its inability to address systemic issues and safeguard the interests of its stakeholders. GSA's latest governance failure under Ms. Cooke's leadership highlights the detrimental impact on residents and the broader community.
But what do you do?
When faced with the question, "What do you do?" I always use a Spike Milligan joke and respond with “I do my best!” However of late it has become a question that requires a more serious response. When people ask these days it tends to be out of curiosity about my Housing Sector platform and my other housing activism activates. So for anyone interested here is how I send my time.
Launching #SafeWarmDry A Community-Led Project for Safer Homes in Oxford
At Housing Sector, we're thrilled to kick off this February with a dedicated initiative aimed at making homes in Oxford safer, warmer, and drier. The #SafeWarmDry campaign is more than a project, it’s a community-driven movement to empower residents and address housing challenges. Join us in creating positive change and ensuring every home in Oxford is safety warm and dry.
Fines Vs. Safety
The spotlight has once again focused on the delicate balance between safety and financial considerations. Recent observations have unveiled a disconcerting trend among certain housing providers - the tendency to prioritise paying fines and legal fees over addressing the underlying safety issues and meeting the expected standard of service that residents rightfully deserve.
Freedom to Critique and Shaping the Correct Response
Embark on a journey with our latest blog as we delve into the intricate balance of Freedom of Speech, mindful critiques, and responsible housing advocacy. In this blog, we uncover the power of community engagement, transparent communication, and the impact of constructive responses. Join us in navigating the challenges of housing issues, fostering social justice, and collectively empowering change. Let's shape a future where resident voices contribute to accountable living and a positive societal impact.
An update!
I'm excited to share a brief update on the latest developments at www.housing.sector.co.uk.
Last month, I embarked on a six-month sabbatical. I want to bring everyone up to speed on the latest developments with the website and our plans for the future.
Unlocking Collaboration
Today, we are addressing a recent development that has prompted us to reflect on our commitment to collaboration, transparency, and effective communication.
Yesterday, I received an email from the ICO regarding a data protection complaint brought forth by GreenSquareAccord (GSA). Instead of initiating a direct conversation with us, GSA chose to approach the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) with their concerns. This decision left us again pondering the missed opportunity for dialogue and cooperation.