Question
Other leaseholders in my building refuse to pay for essential repairs to my flat. What can I do?
Having paid the service charge on our flat for 4 years, the leaseholders of other flats in our Victorian conversion are now actively blocking essential repairs needed to our flat. We have damp coming through the walls due to faulty brickwork but our flat is on the first floor, so scaffolding would be required, and the neighbours have told the freeholder they're not prepared to pay for this out of the communal pot. They have even turned away workmen who have been assigned to do the job. Surely: 1. the freeholder is obligated to carry out such repairs since we pay our service (maintenance) charge 2. it is not within the rights of other leaseholders to block such action otherwise any flat in the leasehold could refuse works done that do not directly affect them?
3 weeks ago - 2 answers
Best Answer
Chosen by Asker
Issues in a conversion of a terrace can be complex as sometimes the problem can be caused by a neighbour. However, it sounds as if this is faulty pointing either on the front or the back of the building. If so, this is almost invariably the responsibility of the freeholder. Repair to your interior plasterwork damaged by the leak will be your responsibility. On no account get the work done and expect to be reimbursed, it won't happen. Take a look at this website for advice www ... The freeholder will be entitled to be reimbursed out of the maintenance fund. If there is not enough money in the building's fund, your managing agent will send everyone statutory notice of the need for an assessment and then there should be three estimates circulated. After the notice period, everyone will be billed, the work will be done and anyone not paying up can be taken to court. If your managing agent is not responding, your only option will be to engage a solicitor to act on your behalf. Usually one letter is sufficient to get the freeholder to meet his obligations.
3 weeks ago
Asker's Rating: 
Other Answers
I know it's an obvious observation. but is your lease not clear on responsibilities? If it is clear you need to have a word with either the other leaseholders about their responsibilities or with the freeholder. It is is not clear you need to seek legal advice, but tread carefully as solicitors are very expensive these days.
by BARRY B- 3 weeks ago