What is Block Management?
Block management is a unique form of property management which requires specialised skills and an in-depth knowledge of legislation not normally found within the average residential letting agency.
This involves looking after the day to day running of the estate/building and includes maintenance work and repair to buildings, gardens, communal areas & handling emergencies (including out of hours). This also includes (when necessary), arranging building and lift insurance, directors & officers insurance, compliance with health and safety, fire and asbestos legislation.
It is important that we are familiar with our client’s properties so we make regular routine visits to the blocks as part of our service. To achieve this we work closely with the freeholders, leaseholders and representatives of residential management associations. Ensuring that our clients are communicated with regularly is an essential part of our job as property managers.
Right To Manage (RTM)
A lot of leaseholders do not realise that since the The Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002 the Leaseholders have the right to force the transfer of the Landlords management functions to a special company set up by the Leaseholders – this is known as a Right to Manage Company.
The right was introduced, not just as a means of taking control of the building from a bad Landlord, but also to empower leaseholders to take responsibility for the management of their block.
The process is relatively simple, and one Homewood Homes can arrange on the Leaseholders behalf from start to finish.
Why Use Homewood Homes as a Managing Agent?
The role of a managing agent today is a complex one and requires a professional approach. To carry out the role requires knowledge of landlord and tenant law, building construction, health and safety regulations, basic accounting and more.
As a rapidly growing block management department, our experienced team understands how good management, presentation, maintenance and efficiently run services can add value to your asset. A poorly managed property can have an impact on the long-term enjoyment of your home and potentially its future value.
Our revolutionary Resident® block management software enables us to stay one step ahead of our competitors, thus ensuring we provide quicker communication, up to date support and compliancy for all involved. The software also allows Leaseholders secure cloud based access to their individual service charge statement, the annual budget and all quotes and estimates obtained for Section 20 Major Works.
There's also a built-in instant messaging service and an online voting tool to speed up decision-making. All the information held is block specific; a real time saver during change in ownership and legal enquiries saving admin time and making the whole management process totally transparent.
All historical information is stored under one roof for Management Company directors and Leaseholders to access for years to come.
Featured Reviews:
For the past year, we have been using Homewood Homes to manage our block of 7 flats. The team are incredibly professional and are always prompt to respond to any queries we have.
They have also been really proactive and have made some excellent savings in some of the shared bills that the previous management company had left to creep up in price. The service has been consistently good with no job too big or too small, and we have been kept informed every step of the way.
Big thanks to all of the team - I cannot recommend this company enough.”
Marianne Billington, SE8
Homewood Homes offer a committed service at a competitive price.
They respond swiftly to communications, are approachable and adopt a businesslike and constructive approach to dealing with all the issues that inevitably arise in the administration of flat management companies
Ed Lyons, SW4
Overall a very good experience with Bradley and Samantha taking over day to day running of the management company, dealing with freeholders, bank accounts, contractors etc
John Hodges, SW4
What Services Do We Offer?
Homewood Homes Block Management provides support with the financial side of property management. From acting as company secretary if required to reviewing all items of expenditure within the service charge accounts. This includes:
- Collection of service charge demands, reserve funds and ground rents
- Calculate service charge budgets
- Cash flow forecasts and future expenditure
- Payment of approved invoices
- Preparation and submission of annual accounts
- Full analysis of income and expenditure
- Set-up of client bank account for payments
As managing agents, we will bring an organised approach to the planning and collection of the service charges and reserve funds, the timetables for redecoration and repairs and inspection and supervision of works.
Our team will provide strategic advice relating to long-term maintenance and improvement that is essential when it comes to protecting the value of your asset. We will also organise and project manage major works when required, adhering to Section 20 consultation procedures, and arranging competitive tenders for leaseholder’s consideration.
Appointing Us
HAPPY CLIENTS - We have lots of happy customers and as a company, Homewood Homes are focused on making sure our residents and owners are happy. We strive to ensure that all of our client’s needs are met and hopefully surpassed!
You can read all of our reviews by clicking on here.
REFEREE’S - We have existing customers who’d be happy to give a written reference, or speak to you in person. Just contact us and we will provide you with the relevant information.
