Fraser Allen Estate Management

Block Management is the process of managing the communal areas of residential properties through the service charge. Managing a block of flats requires a professional approach, time and dedication.

Block management involves constant communication with various contractors in respect of maintenance and repairs, insurance of the building and, in some cases, provision of central heating, lifts, porterage, estate staff, lighting and cleaning of common areas.

It also requires a good understanding of legislation and leasehold matters, preparation of budgets and annual accounts, as well as routine inspections to check that the property is in good order.

A major part of a role in block management is ensuring that the landlord and leaseholders get value for money for their service charge payments, and the building is maintained in accordance with the terms of the lease.

Communal areas are: Corridors and entrances, the structure (roof, external walls and in most cases the windows) and the land it stands on.

How is it managed: Via the service charge, which is collected from each leaseholder in accordance with the terms of the lease. Service charges are payments by the leaseholder to the landlord for all the services the landlord provides. Details of what can (and cannot) be charged by the landlord and the proportion of the charge to be paid by the individual leaseholder will all be set out in the lease.

Managed by: A Managing Agent, who will appoint a dedicated property manager to oversee the maintenance of the communal areas.

Job role: The duties of a managing agent will respond to queries, arrange and manage contractors, deal with all health and safety matters, understand legislation and manage financial accounts.