What is a service charge?

In your flat lease, various services are outlined for communal area maintenance. This includes expenses like building insurance, grounds upkeep, window cleaning, and utilities, tailored to your lease terms.

Do I have to pay service charges?

Service charges, outlined in your lease, are a legal obligation. Failure to pay constitutes a lease breach. Smiths Property Management prepares a yearly budget, charging accordingly for services.

How do I know what Smiths Property Management is spending my service charge on?

Smiths maintains transparency by sharing budgets with leaseholders, showcasing service charge allocations. Previous accounts and invoices are accessible upon request, reflecting our commitment to transparency (refer to Ethics & Values or email us at info@smithspropertymanagement.co.uk)

Each Leaseholder is sent a copy of the new budget. In this you can see exactly what the service charge money is allocated for.

How can I pay my service charge? 

Service charges can be paid through various methods: cheque, bank transfer, in-person at your bank, standing order, or over the phone. Refer to your latest invoice for our bank details, and use your account number as a payment reference.

How do I report a repair?

Report repairs conveniently through our website, via email (info@smithspropertymanagement.co.uk).  To ensure that we can deal with your repair as quickly as possible,  please state in the email your name, telephone number and the full address your are referring to. Alternatively, contact us by telephone at 01904 708 213.

What is the need for a managing agent? 

Managing agents like Smiths ensure the maintenance and value of communal areas. We handle compliance, obtain cost-effective quotes, manage contracts, pay invoices, and oversee service charge collections, alleviating the stress of property upkeep for owners.

How do Smiths address complaints?

We welcome constructive feedback. Contact our office, and our dedicated team will efficiently address and resolve any issues you may have.

What do I do if I am not happy with the current managing agent and wish to move?

Considering a change? Unhappy with your current managing agent? Contact us for guidance on the process of changing agents. We can provide a free, no-obligation quote for the management of your property.