Future-Proofing Your Block: Using Major Works to Improve Sustainability For many leaseholders and Resident Management Companies (RMCs), major works are viewed as an unavoidable expense. It’s undeniable that roof repairs, external redecoration, window replacement and structural maintenance can result in significant costs and disruption. However, rather than simply replacing old components, major works can be
Right to Manage in the Era of Building‑Safety Reform Right to Manage (RTM) companies have always carried important responsibilities. However, since Grenfell, building and fire-safety reforms have transformed expectations around compliance, oversight and accountability in residential blocks. This means RTM companies are now practically responsible for ensuring the structure and common parts of the building are
Using Building Design and Policy to Support Wellbeing How a building is designed, maintained and managed has a direct impact on residents’ wellbeing. For Resident Management Companies (RMCs), there is a growing opportunity to move beyond basic maintenance and consider how policies and physical spaces can support a calmer, healthier environment. Simple decisions around noise,
Making the Most of Shared Outdoor Space: From Neglected Corners to Community Assets In many blocks of flats, shared outdoor areas are some of the most valuable spaces in the building. Courtyards, gardens, terraces and small landscaped areas can offer residents fresh air, relaxation and a sense of community. In practice, however, many of these
Digital Handover: What Managing Agents Need When Taking Over a Block Taking over management of a new block is a critical moment. The first few months set the tone for service standards, resident relationships and risk management for years to come. Yet too often, managing agents inherit partial files, missing certificates, unclear budgets and unresolved
Handling Neighbour Disputes: When Should the Managing Agent Step In? Close living, shared spaces and different lifestyles can all create friction in blocks of flats. Noise complaints, parking rows, refuse issues or disagreements over balcony use can quickly escalate. The difficulty is knowing when a dispute is a private matter between neighbours and when it
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