Balconies, External Walls and Lifestyle Risks Many blocks have invested heavily in cladding remediation, balcony replacement and improved fire-safety features recently. Triggered by the wave of legislation changes following the Grenfell fire, this trend has been perpetuated by the rise in home working (and therefore increased balcony use). Seemingly harmless behaviours can create risks that
Flat Insurance in 2026: What Good Risk Data Does for Your Premium 2026 will see much more risk-adverse behaviour from lenders and insurers alike. For blocks of flats, well-packaged risk data is key to securing better insurance terms including lower premiums, more favourable deductibles, and broader cover. Here we will be explaining what underwriters will
Planning and Consent Changes for Flats and Apartments: What Leaseholders Need to Know Leaseholders in blocks of flats can find themselves navigating a legal maze when it comes to making structural changes. This includes works such as adding balconies or communal amenities or obtaining retrospective consent for unapproved works. Over recent years, planning and leasehold
Common Structural Issues in Older Blocks – What to Look Out For Older residential blocks bring a unique charm and character that many residents love; high ceilings, ornate cornicing, period facades and spacious layouts. But with that charm often comes the challenge of age related structural issues. For Residents’ Management Company (RMC) directors, keeping on
The Hidden Risk of Underinsurance: What Every RMC Should Know Many Residents’ Management Companies (RMCs) unknowingly leave themselves exposed to serious financial and legal risks through a common pitfall: underinsurance. Underinsurance may not seem like an urgent concern – until something goes wrong. If your building suffers a major incident such as a fire, flood
Dealing with Communal Area Service Charge Disputes Sinead Campbell from London Flats Insurance explores the typical causes of service charge conflicts, explain the legal consultation requirements under UK leasehold law and share practical strategies for resolving disputes through communication, transparency and proper documentation. Managing a residential block as a Residents’ Management Company (RMC) director can
How a Proactive RMC Enhances Daily Life in Leasehold Buildings Sinead Campbell from London Flats Insurance highlights exactly what goes into proactive, resident-first management. In a leasehold building, the management of communal areas can have a direct impact on the quality of everyday life. Clean hallways, safe pathways, working door entry systems and tidy gardens
Fire Safety in Blocks of Flats: A Guide for RMCs Sinead Campbell from London Flats Insurance walks you through what RMC directors need to know – from risk assessments to fire door maintenance, as well as providing clear steps for safeguarding your residents and remaining compliant. With tightened regulations and a heightened awareness of fire
The Role of Resident Management Companies in Creating Safe and Supportive Communities Sinead Campbell from London Flats Insurance discusses how RMC Directors and their fellow Officers can help create an environment where leaseholders feel safe and heard. From thoughtfully designing and maintaining communal spaces, to ensuring safety compliance and encouraging resident engagement, the influence of
Energy-Efficient Lighting for Communal Areas: What Works Best? Sinead Campbell from London Flats Insurance takes a closer look at what works best, including LED bulbs, motion-sensors and smart technology that could shape the future of communal lighting in residential blocks. Thoughtful lighting can improve the safety, comfort, and energy consumption of any residential block. Communal