Landlords’ Obligations in Block Management
Understanding the Legal Responsibilities
Managing a block of flats or a private residential estate is very different from letting a single property. It requires specialist knowledge of leases, service charges, and complex legislation. Many landlords, freeholders, and resident management companies find it increasingly difficult to keep up with their obligations.
That’s where Hastings Property Management comes in. We ensure every building we manage is fully compliant with the law, while also being well-maintained and financially secure.
Key Areas of Responsibility
As a landlord, freeholder, or RMC director, you are legally responsible for:
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Fulfilling lease obligations relating to maintenance and management.
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Accounting for service charge and reserve fund income and expenditure.
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Complying with a wide range of statutory requirements covering housing, safety, equality, and property law.
Some of the most important legislation includes:
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Landlord & Tenant Acts (1985, 1987) – covering service charges, repairs, and consultation procedures.
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Commonhold & Leasehold Reform Act 2002 – setting out rules for management, consultation, and leaseholder rights.
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Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – requiring fire risk assessments and ongoing fire safety management.
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Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and Management Regulations 1999 – applying to communal areas in all blocks.
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Control of Asbestos Regulations – requiring asbestos management plans for older buildings.
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Equality Act 2010 – ensuring fair treatment and accessibility in communal areas.
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Construction (Design & Management) Regulations – applying to major works and refurbishments.
(This is not a complete list, but it shows the complexity of the legal framework landlords and RMCs must comply with.)
How We Help
With Hastings Property Management, you don’t need to worry about keeping track of every piece of legislation. We provide:
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Experienced staff with deep knowledge of block management law and procedure.
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Detailed financial management, including computerised accounting to reduce audit costs.
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Access to trusted contractors at competitive rates for maintenance and compliance work.
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Annual budgets, planned maintenance, and regular site inspections to stay ahead of issues.
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Professional dispute resolution, ensuring smooth communication within the community.
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Company Secretary services, where required, to assist RMCs and freehold companies.
Peace of Mind for Landlords & Directors
Our proactive approach means your property remains compliant, well-managed, and protected. Most importantly, leaseholders can have confidence that their investment is safeguarded and that their development is being run to the highest standards.