TURNING HOUSES INTO HOMES LEASEHOLDER HANDBOOK

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "TURNING HOUSES INTO HOMES LEASEHOLDER HANDBOOK"

Transcription

1 TURNING HOUSES INTO HOMES LEASEHOLDER HANDBOOK 24 24

2 EQUITY HOUSING GROUP EQUITY HOUSING GROUP Equity Housing Group comprises three housing associations: Equity Housing Group Ltd, Equity Housing Association Ltd and Provincial Housing Association Ltd. Equity Housing Group Ltd and Equity Housing Association Ltd are Registered Social Landlords and The Housing Corporation, a statutory body, regulates and funds them. Both associations provide accommodation either rented or shared ownership to those on moderate to low incomes. Provincial Housing Association Ltd is not registered with the Housing Corporation and provides management services to privately owned flats. Each Association is an independent not for profit company controlled by a Board of Management. The board members do not undertake any professional work for the Group. The Group s Leasehold Team manages all its leasehold properties and since 1980 has sold over 1,500 homes. To avoid confusion throughout the handbook we have used the term Equity rather than referring to Equity Housing Association Ltd and Equity Housing Group Ltd. 3

3 TYPES OF LEASEHOLD SCHEMES PROVIDED BY EQUITY TYPES OF LEASEHOLD SCHEMES PROVIDED BY EQUITY There are various types of leasehold home ownership initiatives. In this section we explain a little about each of them. Shared Ownership Shared Ownership properties are typically new houses or flats that are targeted at first time buyers who are unable to afford to buy on the open market. There are other circumstances that qualify people for this type of housing (see qualifying criteria on page 14). Usually a 25%, 50% or 75% share is purchased, with rent being paid on the remainder of the equity owned by us. After an initial 12 months, shared owners may buy further shares, however there is no obligation to do so. If you want to move you are able to sell your share to someone else who meets the eligibility criteria. All flat owners are liable for a monthly service charge (as well as the rent). This is used to maintain communal areas (see service charge on page 7). 4

4 TYPES OF LEASEHOLD SCHEMES PROVIDED BY EQUITY Do It Yourself Shared Ownership (DIYSO) This is identical to shared ownership, the only difference being that Equity did not build the property, so they tend to be older houses. The DIYSO scheme no longer operates; however properties do become available when existing owners wish to sell their share. Shared Ownership For The Elderly (SOFTE) Similar to shared ownership, this is for people over 55 years of age (see qualifying criteria on page 15). Purchasers can buy up to a 75% share in the property; if a lesser share (e.g. 25% or 50%) is bought rent and service charge is payable. At 75% share there is only a service charge to pay. This is used to maintain communal areas (see service charge on page 7). Leasehold Schemes For The Elderly (LSE) These properties are for people of retirement age (see qualifying criteria on page 15). This type of scheme receives a Government subsidy that is locked into the property meaning that the selling price of a property is 70% of its market value in perpetuity. All LSE households are liable for a monthly service charge and there are no rent charges. For your information service charge covers similar items to SOFTE schemes. Residents Services Centre: info@equityhousing.co.uk 5

5 BEING A LEASEHOLDER BEING A LEASEHOLDER All of our properties are sold on a leasehold basis this is different from freehold. When you purchase a leasehold property you are actually buying a lease that gives you the right to occupy the property for a fixed number of years. There are certain obligations placed upon you and on Equity as the freeholder. You should be aware that you do not own the bricks and mortar or the ground upon which the property is built. The land and buildings remain in our ownership. Mortgage lenders are happy to lend on this basis. Living in a house (either as Shared Owner or DIYSO) or SOFTE bungalow is much like being a full owner the only difference is that Equity has an interest in the property. The monthly rent/service charge includes an amount for our management charge and buildings insurance (you are responsible for arranging your own contents insurance). You are responsible for all of the repairs. Living in a flat (either as Shared Owner, DIYSO, SOFTE or LSE) or LSE bungalow means that you are responsible for the internal repairs to the property see repairs section page 8. Your service charge includes buildings insurance. You are responsible for any internal repairs to your property. 6

6 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Service Standards The Group will arrange for an annual meeting for the residents of each scheme that requests one. We will discuss with residents the requirements for your scheme including maintenance, grounds maintenance and cleaning. The Group will introduce a checklist that can be used by residents to help monitor the work of contractors. We will keep you informed about how your service charge and sinking fund budgets are being administered on your behalf. The Group wants to encourage residents to come forward to help co-ordinate the services we provide for your scheme and training will be provided for this. We aim to provide a good service for those residents who are buying or selling their home. Rent A rent is charged on the share of the property retained by Equity as follows: All Shared Owner and DIYSO leaseholders are charged a monthly rent this varies according to the amount of equity you own. The lower the equity you own the more the rent will be. SOFTE leaseholders will only pay rent if they own less than 75% of the property s equity. LSE leaseholders do not pay rent. All payments are due on the 1st of each month in advance. Payment can be made by direct debit, standing order, cheque (sent directly to us), by swipe card at the Post Office or by debit card phoneline. Please contact us for further information. All payments are due on the 1st of each month in advance. Payment can be made by direct debit, standing order, cheque (sent directly to us) or by swipe card at the Post Office. Please contact us for further information. 7

7 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Service Charge All flats, regardless of leasehold type, will pay a service charge. This is reviewed annually and revised from 1 April. Service contracts are generally re-tendered every three years and leaseholders are fully consulted. Some houses will pay a service charge, e.g. if there is a communal parking area. LSE bungalows will pay a service charge whereas SOFTE bungalows do not. This reflects the different levels of service. The service charge covers the cost of providing services to communal areas such as lighting, gardening, building insurance and repairs, i.e. things which could not practically be provided by residents on an individual basis. The charges are calculated by taking into account the cost of services provided on each individual scheme. Each scheme has its own service charge, there is no cross subsidisation between schemes. A budget is drawn up annually and a copy is sent to all leaseholders. The service charge payable is based upon the scheme s budget. If leaseholders on a scheme wish to discuss the budget, a meeting can be arranged and their views taken into account. At the end of each financial year, a service charge account identifying income and expenditure is compiled. Equity s external auditors audit the service charge account and copies are sent to all leaseholders with accompanying notes explaining the detail. If the account shows a deficit, i.e. expenditure has been greater than income, we will carry the deficit forward and recover it in following year s charges. Similarly, if there is a surplus on the account it will be carried forward and offset against the next year s charges. The principal Acts relating to service charges are the Landlord and Tenant Acts of 1985 and 1987 and the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act For further information about service charges see L.E.A.S.E. on useful contacts page 22. All payments are due on the 1st of each month in advance. Payment can be made by direct debit, standing order, cheque (sent directly to us), by swipe card at the Post Office or by our debit card phone-line. 8

8 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Money Problems If you experience financial problems, please get in touch with us straight away, any delay will only make matters worse. If you fall into arrears, we will expect the debt to be cleared within a fixed period of time determined by us. Usually we will require an extra amount to be paid along with the monthly payment. If you fail to keep to your agreement, we will take action to recover the monies owed through the courts. This will result in you having a poor credit rating and you may find it difficult to obtain credit in the future. Repairs We are happy to answer any questions relating to repairing responsibilities. For repairs that are your responsibility, generally, we will not be able to provide guidance to you or recommend contractors. For leaseholders living in houses and SOFTE bungalows, leaseholders are responsible for all repairs. For Leaseholders living in flats and LSE bungalows, leaseholders are responsible for all internal repairs within the individual property. Your Service Charge covers repairs to the common elements of the building, including the external fabric, communal areas and services outside your individual property (see Service Charge on page 8). The repairs you are responsible for within your flat/bungalow, are (the following list is not exhaustive): Emergency repairs will be responded to within 1 day Urgent repairs will be responded to within 7 days. Routine repairs will be responded to within 31 days. Keys and locks to individual front doors Hot and cold water pipes (including freezing of internal pipes), taps (and washers), tanks, cylinders, internal drainage, ball valves Wash hand basins, bath, shower, toilet pan and cistern All electrical items, such as, distribution board, light fittings, wiring, plug sockets Heating systems, either gas central heating or night storage heaters Any gas or electric fire All internal decorations, including tiling and plasterwork to walls and ceilings Floor coverings Internal doors, hinges, locks handles, catches and closure mechanisms Glazing to internal and external windows and doors 9

9 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Your Leasehold Officer will carry out regular inspections of your scheme to identify any repairs to the communal areas. In between these regular inspections, if you identify a repair you can report it on It is helpful if you are able to accurately describe the location and nature of the fault. If an emergency repair occurs outside normal working hours, you can report it to our out-of-hours emergency service on the same number, We do not employ repair staff. All repairs are carried out by qualified external contractors from our approved list. For items, such as, lifts and emergency lighting systems, service contracts are arranged with professional contractors. All these costs are met out of the Service Charge, but major works may be charged to the Sinking Fund. Sinking Fund This section applies to flats and LSE bungalows and not to houses or SOFTE bungalows. Each scheme has its own Sinking Fund (or maintenance reserve ) for cyclical painting, major repairs and renewals and replacements, which is included as an item in the Service Charge. The Sinking Fund is to ensure there are sufficient monies to meet the cost of major works when they arise in the future. Setting up a Sinking Fund helps to ensure that all occupants, irrespective of when they actually live in the scheme, share the financial costs, as it would be unfair to expect future occupants to pay for major works. The sinking fund helps maintain the value of your asset and avoids the need to pay out large one-off sums when major works are required. By law we have to consult with you before ordering any major works unless it is an emergency (see page 13 for Consultation). The actual contribution into the Sinking Fund is calculated by a financial model that predicts when various building components are likely to require re-placement and what the cost will be. This is a best guess as the life of a component may exceed the prediction and, conversely, it may require replacement earlier than expected. The level of contributions is reviewed periodically and the amount in each scheme s Sinking Fund is shown in the audited accounts. Monies held in the Sinking Fund are held in trust for each scheme in an interest bearing account. The interest received is added to the Sinking Fund and is shown in the audited accounts. As the monies are held in trust, we are unable to use these amounts for our own purposes and, in the very unlikely event of Equity going out of business, creditors would not be able to have a claim against them. The Sinking Fund on one scheme cannot be used to fund work on another. 10

10 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Typical major repairs and replacements for which the Sinking Fund would be used are (this is not intended to be an exhaustive list): Roofs, guttering, pointing. External drainage. Footpaths, parking areas, access roads (where not adopted). Communal lighting and power. TV aerial systems. Door entry systems and warden call systems (where fitted). Floor coverings to communal areas. Re-decoration of the external and internal communal areas. Expenditure on minor repairs to any of the above would normally be met out of the Service Charge account. The internal communal areas and exterior of flats and LSE bungalows will normally be re-decorated every five years. Gas Servicing All leaseholders are responsible for regular servicing of any gas appliances in your home. It is recommended to arrange this once a year, at least. This is a health and safety measure, but also ensures that your appliances are working at their most efficient. Every year about 30 people die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues which have not been properly installed or maintained. Many others suffer from ill health as a result of CO poisoning. Insurance Equity arranges buildings insurance on all leasehold properties. However, our insurance policy does not cover your contents and we strongly advise you to take out cover for your own personal items. We are hoping to be able to recommend a value for money contents policy in the near future and will contact all leaseholders with details when they are available. The policy covers storm and accidental damage and the cost of rebuilding or reinstatement if there was a fire or other insured incident. If your property is uninhabitable because of loss or damage the policy will meet the cost of comparable accommodation whilst reinstatement works are being carried out. 11

11 BEING A LEASEHOLDER It also covers structural items and includes fixtures (e.g. bath, w.c., wash hand basin) and fitted kitchens as well as accidental damage to fixed glass such as external windows. As with any buildings policy it does not cover wear and tear so, for example, if a door needed replacement because it had rotted you would not be able to make a claim. The insurance premium is part of the monthly rent/service charge you pay. For houses and SOFTE bungalows the policy excess is 100. However, we would not normally make a claim for works which are less than 125, this helps keep the premium down. For flats and LSE bungalows there is an excess of 250 for claims relating to fixtures and fittings. The excess for claims in respect of subsidence to the building is 1,000. If you need to make a claim on the policy you should contact us first to check if the work is covered by the policy. If it is we will send you a claim form that you should complete and return with three estimates. The insurance company may wish to appoint a loss adjuster to inspect the damage and agree the work to be carried out. We will advise you if the insurance company has accepted the claim. If so you are then responsible for appointing a contractor and paying for the cost of the work. You should advise your contractor that the work is the subject of an insurance claim and unless you can meet the cost yourself there may be a delay in receiving payment from the insurance company. Copies of the insurance policy are available on request. If you are planning to carry out improvements please remember they will not necessarily be reflected in the value of your property if you decide to sell at some time in the future. Improvements If you wish to carry out improvements to your home you should first contact us to see whether our consent is required (this is a condition of lease). Provided your planned improvement enhances the property we are unlikely to refuse permission. Minor improvements such as new light fittings or renewing internal doors or installing fitted wardrobes, for example, do not require permission. Typically the following would require our consent and you will need to complete and return our Improvement Form : Structural alterations such as creating a through room or adding a conservatory An extension or garage Installing central heating Window replacement Fitting a new kitchen or bathroom suite Loft conversion The above list is not intended to be comprehensive, if your planned improvement does not appear please contact us. If you are planning to carry out improvements please remember they will not necessarily be reflected in the value of your property if you decide to sell at some time in the future. 12

12 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Consultation And Involvement In managing your homes we seek to be open and accountable for all of our actions and consult and involve you as far as is reasonably practical to do so. It is our policy to provide a range of opportunities for residents to be involved should they wish to, but there is no obligation. The current range of opportunities open to residents includes: We have set up a Leasehold Panel to discuss your concerns and look at ways to improve our service to you. Some schemes have Residents Associations we will provide advice and guidance to residents who wish to set up a Residents Association. A twice yearly newsletter is issued to all leaseholders. A complaints procedure (see below). Complaints If you have cause to complain we would ask you to follow our complaint s procedure, this enables us to deal with complaints in a consistent manner. The stages in our procedure are: Initial Complaint Your initial complaint should be made to your Leasehold Officer who will seek to resolve matters to your satisfaction. Formal Complaint If the Leasehold Officer fails to deal with your complaint or you feel that matters have not been properly resolved you should contact the Tenant Services Manager either by phone, letter or via our website The Tenant Services Manager is the member of staff who deals with all formal complaints and is independent of our operational teams, and therefore is able to make an objective assessment. Complaint to The Housing Director If the Tenant Services Manager fails to resolve your complaint you should write to the Housing Director who will personally investigate matters and normally reply within 10 working days. Members Complaints Panel If you are still dissatisfied your complaint will be heard by three Board Members. Independent Housing Ombudsman If you exhaust the complaints procedure you can refer your complaint to the Independent Housing Ombudsman see contact details on page 22. We treat all complaints seriously and seek to resolve them quickly; it is unusual for a compliant to go to the Members Complains Panel. Full details of our complaints procedure are available on request. 13

13 BEING A LEASEHOLDER Anti-Social Behaviour Policy Reports of anti-social behaviour will be investigated and solutions will be sought, involving other agencies, where appropriate. Subletting Under the terms of your lease you are not allowed to sublet the whole of the property. Keeping Of Pets If you are living in a flat or property with communal areas, permission will not be given to keep a cat or dog. You should contact us about the keeping of other pets. Residents Services Centre: info@equityhousing.co.uk 14

14 SELLING YOUR HOME SELLING YOUR HOME You will be responsible for meeting the cost of the valuation and your estate agent and solicitor s fees. If you are selling your share you can only sell the proportion you own. For example if the valuation is 100,000 and you have a 50% share the selling price will be 50,000. You cannot ask for more than it is valued, however, you can accept a lower price. If You Are Living In A Shared Ownership, SOFTE Or DIYSO Property You must obtain and pay for an open market valuation for the property from a professionally qualified valuer (RICS) and send us a copy. Please note an estate agent s suggested selling price is not sufficient. We will then agree the valuation and confirm the selling price of your share. You will need to choose an estate agent (or market the property yourself) and we will require a copy of the selling details before you place your home on the market. You are able to sell the portion of the equity you own to someone providing they meet our criteria this is a requirement of your lease. 15

15 SELLING YOUR HOME You will need to appoint a solicitor to act on your behalf. When you agree a sale, your purchaser will need to be approved by us (see qualifying criteria below). They will need to complete our application form. Your solicitor will fix a date for completion and you will need to ensure all service charges, council tax, water charges and utility bills are paid up to the date you leave. If You Are Living In A LSE Property Notify us that you wish to sell. We will instruct a qualified valuer to provide an open market valuation for the property (remember the selling price will be 70% of the valuation). You will need to pay the fee. You will need to appoint your own estate agent to sell the property. You will need to appoint a solicitor to act on your behalf. When you agree a sale, your purchaser will need to be approved by us. They will need to complete our application form. Your solicitor will fix a date for completion and you will need to ensure all service charges, council tax, water charges and utility bills are paid up to the date you leave You should remember that the lease determines the sales process and both parties are bound by it. Our administration fee for the sale is whichever is the lower of 400 or 1% of the selling price. You will have to meet our solicitor s costs relating to the surrender and granting of a new lease together with your own solicitor s fees. An estate agent s suggested selling price is not the same as an open market valuation by a qualified valuer (RICS). The selling price of your home will be 70% of the open market valuation as determined by a qualified valuer. This is based on a new lease being granted and ignores any items such as carpets and curtains but will include any improvements you may have carried out. Qualifying Criteria Shared Ownership and DIYSO Applicants will be eligible if they fulfil one or more of the following criteria, which are listed in priority order: PRIORITY 1 The applicant s, or joint applicants, income is insufficient to purchase suitable accommodation on the open market and/or their other circumstances are such that they are unable to obtain a mortgage. 16

16 SELLING YOUR HOME PRIORITY 2 The applicants are tenants of a housing association or local authority and, by their purchase of a shared ownership property, will release accommodation for renting to those in housing need. PRIORITY 3 Existing owner occupiers will be considered only if: Either, their relationship has irretrievably broken down or they have to leave their existing home and the sale price will realise insufficient capital and they are unable to purchase a property suitable for their needs, based on their current income. Or, their financial circumstances have changed through redundancy or ill health and they are no longer able to meet the running costs of their current home. PRIORITY 4 The applicant lives in the local authority area or is moving to the area for employment or to receive family support. PRIORITY 5 In the situation where there are no purchasers who meet any of the above criteria, any individual who wishes to purchase will be considered, providing their financial and personal circumstances are not totally incompatible with the objectives of shared ownership. In addition, in all circumstances, applicants will need to demonstrate that they can meet the running costs of owning a shared ownership property. The guideline used is that your mortgage and rent/service charges should not be more than 35% of your net income. SOFTE For SOFTE properties the requirement is that at least one applicant must be over 55 years of age. Applicants will be eligible if they fulfil one or more of the following criteria which are listed in priority order: PRIORITY 1 The property currently occupied by the applicant is: In a poor state of repair. Will be in need of substantial maintenance work within the next 36 months. Requires works/improvements to bring it to an acceptable standard and/or comply with current regulations. 17

17 SELLING YOUR HOME And, that the applicant has insufficient monies or is unable to release sufficient assets to execute the necessary works/improvements. PRIORITY 2 The applicant would receive support from their family by moving, or be in closer proximity to health care facilities or shopping facilities (which is lacking in their current neighbourhood). PRIORITY 3 The sale of the applicant s, or applicants, current accommodation, together with any other assets they may have, is insufficient to purchase alternative accommodation more suitable for their needs. PRIORITY 4 The applicant has no family support and/or would benefit from residing in accommodation specifically provided for the elderly and linked to a warden service subject to Priority 3 above. PRIORITY 5 The applicant is in need of one level accommodation because of an existing medical condition. LSE For most LSE schemes a prospective applicant needs to be in excess of 60 years of age, although some schemes specify 55 years. However, all LSE leases require that you must be retired. The qualifying criteria are the same as for SOFTE, as shown above. Residents Services Centre: info@equityhousing.co.uk 18

18 EQUALITY & DIVERSITY EQUALITY & DIVERSITY Equity recognises that it provides services for a number of diverse communities. The Group wants to identify and meets the needs of all its residents and customers. Service Standards The Group will treat all its residents and customers equally and fairly Targets to encourage inclusion will be set, monitored and action taken where necessary The Group will aim to make all its buildings and services accessible for all In the areas in which it works the group will aim to promote community cohesion A copy of the Group s Equality and Diversity policy is available on request. The Group has committed itself to ensure that no resident, applicant for housing or job applicant receives less favourable treatment on any grounds but in particular race, ethnic or national origin (including travellers, migrant workers, asylum seekers and refugees), religious or political beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental ability, age or by being HIV positive or having AIDS. 19

19 BUYING FURTHER SHARES IN YOUR PROPERTY BUYING FURTHER SHARES IN YOUR PROPERTY You are under no obligation to purchase further shares in their property and can remain as a part owner for as long as they like. However, many shared owners, as their finances improve, wish to buy further shares or the property outright (this is known as staircasing). 20

20 BUYING FURTHER SHARES IN YOUR PROPERTY To purchase extra shares in your property: Contact us and we will appoint a qualified valuer (RICS) you will be responsible for their fee and this must be paid in advance. The valuer will not include any improvements you have carried out in the valuation. When we receive the valuation we will provide you with a copy and advise you how much the extra shares will cost (the purchase price of additional shares is non- negotiable). You will need to arrange the necessary finance to purchase the additional share. You will need to have a solicitor to act on your behalf. When a completion date has been set your solicitor will be notified of the rent (and service charge if payable) due. If you are not staircasing to 100%, once completion has taken place we will let you know what your revised monthly payments will be. You must complete the purchase of the extra share within three months otherwise the property will have to be re-valued and this could result in it costing more (plus the additional fees you will have to pay). If you live in a house when you staircase to 100% no further payments will be due to us. You will need to arrange your own buildings insurance as your home will no longer be covered on our policy. After completion the title to the property will be transferred to you after a period of three months. Residents Services Centre: info@equityhousing.co.uk 21

21 USEFUL CONTACTS USEFUL CONTACTS L.E.A.S.E The Leasehold Advisory Service provides free advice on the law affecting residential long leasehold property and Commonhold City Road, London, EC1Y 2BJ Tel: Fax: Website: Housing Corporation The Housing Corporation s role is to fund and regulate housing associations in England. 4th Floor, One Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, M1 1RG Tel: Fax: enquiries@housingcorp.gsx.gov.uk Website: Ombudsman The Housing Ombudsman Service considers complaints against member organisations, and deals with other housing disputes. Housing Ombudsman Service, Norman House, The Strand, London, WC2R 0AA Tel: Lo-call: Minicom: Fax: ombudsman@ihos.org.uk Website: Residential Property Tribunal Service First Floor, 25 York Street, Manchester, M1 4JB Tel: Website: Association Of Retirement Housing Managers Southbank House, Black Prince Road, London, SE1 7SJ Tel: Website: 22

22 Armitt House, Monmouth Road, Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle, Cheshire, SK8 7EF Tel: Fax: Residents Services Centre: Web: To get a copy of the Leasehold Handbook translated or in large print or on audio tape please telephone

Leaseholders Handbook

Leaseholders Handbook Leaseholders Handbook January 2011 Contents Page 1 Introduction 1 Introduction 2 What is leasehold? 3 Repairs and improvements 4 Service charge 5 Consultation 6 Insurance 7 Selling and renting your home

More information

LEASEHOLD MANAGEMENT POLICY

LEASEHOLD MANAGEMENT POLICY LEASEHOLD MANAGEMENT POLICY EG/Board Approval: November 2014 Responsible Board: Ocean Housing Ltd Next Review: November 2015 Responsible Executive: Managing Director of Ocean Housing Ltd 1.0 INTRODUCTION

More information

Buying retirement housing

Buying retirement housing Factsheet 2 April 2014 About this factsheet This factsheet provides information for people who are considering buying retirement housing. It covers management of retirement schemes, what services may be

More information

We can help with BUYING A RESALE PROPERTY

We can help with BUYING A RESALE PROPERTY We can help with BUYING A RESALE PROPERTY Contents Buying a Resale property 2 Why buy through a Shared Ownership scheme? 2 Who are Family Mosaic? 3 When I buy a resale property, what am I buying? 3 I

More information

THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND PENSIONS BOARD

THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND PENSIONS BOARD THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND PENSIONS BOARD Retirement Housing SHARED OWNERSHIP BOOKLET Information Booklet for Scheme Applicants Housing Department The Church of England Pensions Board, 29 Great Smith Street,

More information

Leasehold Services. Welcome Guide

Leasehold Services. Welcome Guide Leasehold Services Welcome Guide Contents Welcome 3 Service charge 4 Major Works 7 Subletting 10 Repairs 12 Gas safety 15 Insurance 16 Ways to get involved 18 Useful contacts 19 2 Over the phone 0800 028

More information

Customer Compensation Policy

Customer Compensation Policy Date approved: 5 May 2014 Approved by: Chief Executive 1. Introduction 1.1 Southway Housing Trust (Southway) will provide high quality services to our customers and aim to get things right first time.

More information

ADVICE NOTE INSURANCE. A guide to insurance for your block of flats

ADVICE NOTE INSURANCE. A guide to insurance for your block of flats ADVICE NOTE INSURANCE A guide to insurance for your block of flats 2 CONTENTS Note: As the leading trade body for residential leasehold management, ARMA is also an important resource for leaseholders.

More information

SHARED OWNERSHIP HANDBOOK

SHARED OWNERSHIP HANDBOOK SHARED OWNERSHIP HANDBOOK 1 Hastoe shared owners handbook Welcome. We have put together this handbook as a guide for our shared owners. It describes your rights and responsibilities as a shared owner of

More information

Y O U R A N N U A L S E R V I C E C H A R G E E X P L A I N E D

Y O U R A N N U A L S E R V I C E C H A R G E E X P L A I N E D Y O U R E X P L A I N E D 02 Contents What is an annual service charge? 03 How we set up service chargeable accounts 04 Service chargeable items and descriptions 05 Understanding the paperwork 06 Annual

More information

The Trust. Compensation Policy. Customer Experience Team. Draft: Final Version. Effective Date: May 2014. Affected Teams: All

The Trust. Compensation Policy. Customer Experience Team. Draft: Final Version. Effective Date: May 2014. Affected Teams: All The Trust Compensation Policy Customer Experience Team Draft: Final Version Effective Date: May 2014 Affected Teams: All Compensation Policy May 2014 Page 1 of 8 CONTENTS 1. INTRODUCTION... 3 2. POLICY

More information

Repairs and looking after your home

Repairs and looking after your home A guide to Repairs and looking after your home Contents Page No. Introduction 1 Information for tenants 2 Information for homeowners 3-4 Information for onsite NHS workers 5 Information for students 5

More information

Building insurance frequently asked questions

Building insurance frequently asked questions Building insurance frequently asked questions April 2012 From 1 April 2011 until 31 March 2013 Ocaso S.A. U.K. Branch will provide building insurance for the leaseholders of Islington Council. The purpose

More information

Section 121AA Housing Act 1985. Information to help tenants decide whether to exercise the Right to Buy

Section 121AA Housing Act 1985. Information to help tenants decide whether to exercise the Right to Buy Section 121AA Housing Act 1985 Information to help tenants decide whether to exercise the Right to Buy April 2012 SECTION 121A HOUSING ACT 1985 INFORMATION TO HELP TENANTS DECIDE WHETHER TO EXERCISE THE

More information

Thinking of buying? Your right to buy your council home

Thinking of buying? Your right to buy your council home Thinking of buying? Your right to buy your council home Buying your home is probably the biggest financial decision you will ever make so it s important to consider whether it is the right choice for you.

More information

Purchasers Guide. www.housing21.co.uk. For further information please contact:

Purchasers Guide. www.housing21.co.uk. For further information please contact: Housing 21 is a not for profit organisation and a leading provider of care, health and housing options for the over 55 s. www.housing21.co.uk Purchasers Guide For further information please contact: New

More information

ADVICE NOTE BUYING AND SELLING YOUR FLAT. A summary of the typical events when buying and selling a leasehold flat

ADVICE NOTE BUYING AND SELLING YOUR FLAT. A summary of the typical events when buying and selling a leasehold flat ADVICE NOTE BUYING AND SELLING YOUR FLAT A summary of the typical events when buying and selling a leasehold flat 2 CONTENTS Note: As the leading trade body for residential leasehold management, ARMA is

More information

LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS

LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS ASSOCIATION OF RETIREMENT HOUSING MANAGERS ASSOCIATION OF RESIDENTIAL MANAGING AGENTS LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS A guide to how it works, your rights and responsibilities Introduction What is leasehold?

More information

SHARED OWNERSHIP LEASES. What is shared ownership leasehold and how does it work?

SHARED OWNERSHIP LEASES. What is shared ownership leasehold and how does it work? SHARED OWNERSHIP LEASES What is shared ownership leasehold and how does it work? Contents Purpose of this leaflet... 3 What is leasehold... 3 What is a shared ownership lease... 3 What are the differences

More information

Nick Sanderson, Head of Housing and Property. Reason for Report: To advise members of the new Compensation Policy.

Nick Sanderson, Head of Housing and Property. Reason for Report: To advise members of the new Compensation Policy. DECENT & AFFORDABLE HOMES PDG 16 JUNE 2015 COMPENSATION POLICY Cabinet Member: Responsible Officer: Cllr Ray Stanley Nick Sanderson, Head of Housing and Property Reason for Report: To advise members of

More information

SHARED OWNERSHIP BUYERS GUIDE

SHARED OWNERSHIP BUYERS GUIDE SHARED OWNERSHIP BUYERS GUIDE SHARED OWNERSHIP SHARED OWNERSHIP PROVIDES AN AFFORDABLE WAY TO BUY A HOME. YOU PURCHASE A SHARE IN A BRAND NEW HOME AND PAY A SUBSIDISED RENT ON THE PART YOU DON T OWN. IN

More information

Compensation Policy. When we have failed to carry out emergency or urgent repairs

Compensation Policy. When we have failed to carry out emergency or urgent repairs Compensation Policy Hexagon aims to give good standards of service in housing and care, but occasionally things do go wrong. If a tenant makes a complaint, we will investigate and put the matter right

More information

Thinking of Buying Your Council Flat?

Thinking of Buying Your Council Flat? Thinking of Buying Your Council Flat? Things to consider before you buy a flat where the freeholder is a council, housing association or other social landlord May 2015 Department for Communities and Local

More information

Interested in buying your own home?

Interested in buying your own home? Interested in buying your own home? A legal guide to Right to Buy 02030827 right to buy booklet 2015 V1.indd 3 21/07/2015 15:15:54 Further information Sanctuary Housing Customer Services 0300 123 3516

More information

Buying more shares in your home or staircasing

Buying more shares in your home or staircasing Buying more shares in your home or staircasing This guide is to help you with the steps to follow if you want to buy more shares in your shared ownership property. This is known as staircasing. There are

More information

Sharing Owners Handbook

Sharing Owners Handbook Ethical Commitment Excellence Sharing Owners Handbook Leaders in Building Communities where People Choose to Live Contents Introduction... 1 Rights & Responsibilities... 1 Moving into a Brand New Property...

More information

Tenant & Leaseholder Compensation Policy

Tenant & Leaseholder Compensation Policy Tenant & Leaseholder Compensation Policy Housing Landlord July 202 Version Control Version 3 Status of Policy Sponsor Author/Reviewer Approved Review Date Draft Mark Gaynor, Corporate Director of Housing

More information

Building insurance frequently asked questions

Building insurance frequently asked questions Building insurance frequently asked questions Buildings insurance for Islington Council leaseholders is provided by Zurich Insurance plc (trading as Zurich Municipal). This factsheet is a summary of the

More information

CO-OPERATIVES. The setting of homeowner service charges. The CDS Policy CONTENTS. Policy. Appendices. Homeowners Manual; Section 3 (1)

CO-OPERATIVES. The setting of homeowner service charges. The CDS Policy CONTENTS. Policy. Appendices. Homeowners Manual; Section 3 (1) The setting of homeowner service charges The CDS Policy CO-OPERATIVES Homeowners Manual; Section 3 (1) This document describes CDS Co-operatives' policy on setting service charges for right to buy freeholders

More information

H 7. Factoring Policy. If you require this policy in a different format please ask a member of staff. Date of Approval Oct 12 Review Due Dec 15

H 7. Factoring Policy. If you require this policy in a different format please ask a member of staff. Date of Approval Oct 12 Review Due Dec 15 H 7 Factoring Policy If you require this policy in a different format please ask a member of staff Date of Approval Oct 12 Review Due Dec 15 1.0 The Association s Objective 1.1 Elderpark Housing Association

More information

How to buy more shares in your home

How to buy more shares in your home How to buy more shares in your home Staircasing Staircasing is the process of you purchasing additional shares in your property, you can either purchase additional shares in increments all the way up to

More information

Buying a flat. Your guide to. www.lawsociety.org.uk. Leasehold flats. Some differences between a house and a flat

Buying a flat. Your guide to. www.lawsociety.org.uk. Leasehold flats. Some differences between a house and a flat www.lawsociety.org.uk Your guide to Buying a flat Leasehold flats Buying a flat is not the same as buying a house. If you are buying a home, whether a house or a flat, you should read our guide to Buying

More information

Repairs and maintenance

Repairs and maintenance Section 9 Who repairs what? Reporting repairs Repairs and maintenance Emergencies Repair response times Appointments Maintaining and improving your home What if Hastoe get it wrong? 34 Repairs and maintenance

More information

Moving in and moving out of your council property. Our promise to you

Moving in and moving out of your council property. Our promise to you Moving in and moving out of your council property Our promise to you Moving in and moving out of your council property Medway Council Housing Services is committed to providing excellent customer service

More information

Factoring Services. for owners & sharing owners. www.thenuehousing.co.uk

Factoring Services. for owners & sharing owners. www.thenuehousing.co.uk Factoring Services for owners & sharing owners www.thenuehousing.co.uk How do I find out about my legal rights and obligations as an owner? The legal documents which define the rules relating to the shared

More information

Home Buying Glossary of terms

Home Buying Glossary of terms Home Buying Glossary of terms GLOSSARY OF AFFORDABLE HOME OWNERSHIP TERMINOLOGY The terms below are often used in house buying or mortgage process. You may come across these terms when you are in the process

More information

Other useful information and guidance

Other useful information and guidance Other useful information and guidance Insurance (see also section 3) We insure the property (including the garage if any) under a master insurance policy which covers the structural parts of the building.

More information

The Types of Standard 2 Guidance on the Standards 2 Changes to Legislation 2

The Types of Standard 2 Guidance on the Standards 2 Changes to Legislation 2 CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 2 The Types of Standard 2 Guidance on the Standards 2 Changes to Legislation 2 SCOTTISH CORE STANDARDS FOR ACCREDITED LANDLORDS 3 1 Communication with the Tenant 3 2 Equality Issues,

More information

A Guide to Repairs & Maintenance

A Guide to Repairs & Maintenance A Guide to Repairs & Maintenance your local housing provider www.ssha.co.uk V 1.1 Every home in tip-top condition Keeping your home well maintained and in good repair is as important to us as it is to

More information

Our repairs and maintenance service

Our repairs and maintenance service Your repairs Being a GHA tenant gives you special rights when it comes to getting things fixed. This is called your Right to Repair. Here you ll find all you need to know about that, and much more. If

More information

Home Improvements for Leaseholders

Home Improvements for Leaseholders Home Improvements for Leaseholders Home Improvements for Leaseholders Information for shared owners and leaseholders who want to carry out improvement works to their home. I want to do work in my home

More information

Cernach Housing Association Factoring Policy

Cernach Housing Association Factoring Policy 1. INTRODUCTION Housing Association Limited Cernach Housing Association as a landlord and factor accepts the responsibility for providing a range of services for all of the properties under its control.

More information

How to buy your home. Yate 01454 821100 Kingswood 01454 821300 Patchway 01454 821500. www.merlinhs.co.uk

How to buy your home. Yate 01454 821100 Kingswood 01454 821300 Patchway 01454 821500. www.merlinhs.co.uk The information in this leaflet is also available in other languages, in larger print, Braille or on audiotape or CD. Please contact the customer service team at your area housing office if you need any

More information

Home Improvement Insurance - UK Landlords

Home Improvement Insurance - UK Landlords COMPENSATION POLICY LEAD OFFICER Bruce Johnson Director of Technical Services Board Approval: January 2011 Next Revieww Date: January 2013 CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Purpose 3.0 Right to Repair 4.0

More information

Adviceguide Advice that makes a difference

Adviceguide Advice that makes a difference Buildings insurance What is buildings insurance Buildings insurance covers the cost of damage to the structure of your property. This includes the roof, walls, ceilings, floors, doors and windows. Outdoor

More information

Homeowners Handbook. A guide for leaseholders and shared owners

Homeowners Handbook. A guide for leaseholders and shared owners Homeowners Handbook A guide for leaseholders and shared owners Introduction... 4 Contact us... 5 Your home Your lease... 8 17 The lease... 8 Responsibilities... 9 Your rights...10 Extending and making

More information

Your Preserved Right to Buy or Right to Acquire Your Home

Your Preserved Right to Buy or Right to Acquire Your Home Your Preserved Right to Buy or Right to Acquire Your Home Your rights under the Housing Act 1985 (as amended) as applied by the Housing (Preserved Right to Buy) Regulations 1993 and the Housing Act 1985

More information

How to report a repair

How to report a repair How to report a repair for repairs to your home? We are committed to making sure your home is in a good state of repair. To meet our legal responsibilities we will: Keep the exterior (eg roof, walls, doors,

More information

BIDDULPH MANSIONS RESIDENTS GUIDE

BIDDULPH MANSIONS RESIDENTS GUIDE BIDDULPH MANSIONS RESIDENTS GUIDE The board of Biddulph Mansions West has put together this residents guide to help you get the most out of the block. It tells you: how Biddulph Mansions is managed services

More information

TERMS & CONDITIONS FULLY MANAGED SERVICE

TERMS & CONDITIONS FULLY MANAGED SERVICE TERMS & CONDITIONS FULLY MANAGED SERVICE For the purpose of this agreement the following definitions will apply:- Keywest Estate Agents Ltd shall be known as The Agent... shall be known as The Owner..

More information

Have you heard about Open Market HomeBuy?

Have you heard about Open Market HomeBuy? Have you heard about Open Market HomeBuy? A guide to buying a home on the open market using an equity loan Contents What is Open Market HomeBuy? 3 Who is eligible for the scheme? 4 How does Open Market

More information

Housing Policy Repairs and Maintenance

Housing Policy Repairs and Maintenance Housing Policy Repairs and Maintenance This policy affects: Tenants X Leaseholders X Other: TMO Tenants X TMO Leaseholders X PFI1 Tenants PFI2 Leaseholders PFI2 Tenants PFI2 Leaseholders Author: Service

More information

Saffron Building Society Mortgages Savings Investments Insurance Loans. Residential mortgage conditions. www.saffronbs.co.

Saffron Building Society Mortgages Savings Investments Insurance Loans. Residential mortgage conditions. www.saffronbs.co. Saffron Building Society Mortgages Savings Investments Insurance Loans Residential mortgage conditions www.saffronbs.co.uk 0800 072 1100 Saffron Building Society Residential Mortgage Conditions (England

More information

ADVICE NOTE FREEHOLD HOUSES ON PRIVATE ESTATES. A guide for freehold homeowners paying service charges

ADVICE NOTE FREEHOLD HOUSES ON PRIVATE ESTATES. A guide for freehold homeowners paying service charges ADVICE NOTE FREEHOLD HOUSES ON PRIVATE ESTATES A guide for freehold homeowners paying service charges 2 CONTENTS Note: As the leading trade body for residential leasehold management, ARMA is also an important

More information

FACTORED OWNERS OF FLATS

FACTORED OWNERS OF FLATS HOUSING ASSOCIATION LIMITED LAND AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES WRITTEN STATEMENT OF SERVICES for the FACTORED OWNERS OF FLATS March 2013 BARGARRAN - NORTH BARR - PARK MAINS CONTENTS Page 1. Mission,

More information

Your Guide to Shared Ownership

Your Guide to Shared Ownership Your Guide to Shared Ownership 1 Shared ownership is designed for first-time buyers, who are able to raise a mortgage but are unable to afford the full cost of homeownership. Why buy a shared ownership

More information

Homeowner s Handbook A guide for leaseholders and shared owners

Homeowner s Handbook A guide for leaseholders and shared owners Homeowner s Handbook A guide for leaseholders and shared owners About us mhs homes is a not-for-profit organisation providing affordable accommodation in Kent. We own and manage over 8000 properties and

More information

Help to Buy Buyers Guide. Homes and Communities Agency http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/helptobuy August 2014

Help to Buy Buyers Guide. Homes and Communities Agency http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/helptobuy August 2014 Help to Buy Buyers Guide Homes and Communities Agency http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/helptobuy August 2014 What is Help to Buy? Help to Buy is equity loan assistance to home buyers from the Homes

More information

Peach Properties (UK) Ltd Office Account

Peach Properties (UK) Ltd Office Account IMPORTANT TENANT GUIDANCE NOTES Thank you for choosing to rent your new home through Peach. You will place a two weeks holding deposit on the property, which is non refundable should you change your mind

More information

Residential Long Leaseholders. A guide to your rights and responsibilities

Residential Long Leaseholders. A guide to your rights and responsibilities Residential Long Leaseholders A guide to your rights and responsibilities Contents Introduction 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Leasehold flats & houses A summary of your rights & responsibilities 7 Leasehold

More information

LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS

LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS ASSOCIATIONOF RETIREMENTHOUSING MANAGERS ASSOCIATION OF RESIDENTIAL MANAGING AGENTS LIVING IN LEASEHOLD FLATS A guide to how it works, your rights and responsibilities Introduction What is leasehold? What

More information

LIFETIME MORTGAGE LUMP SUM

LIFETIME MORTGAGE LUMP SUM LIFETIME MORTGAGE LUMP SUM Terms and Conditions (version 5) This is an important document. Please keep it in a safe place. LV= Lifetime Mortgage lump sum Terms and Conditions Welcome to LV=, and thank

More information

Home Insurance AXA HomeSafe. Your policy summary

Home Insurance AXA HomeSafe. Your policy summary Home Insurance AXA HomeSafe Your policy summary Summary of cover This policy summary does not contain full details and conditions of your insurance you will find these in your policy wording. Your AXA

More information

Help to Buy Buyers Guide

Help to Buy Buyers Guide Help to Buy Buyers Guide Homes and Communities Agency http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/helptobuy Page 1 of 27 Key information Buyers using this scheme must provide security in the form of a second

More information

TENANCY AGREEMENT (FIXED TERM)

TENANCY AGREEMENT (FIXED TERM) TENANCY AGREEMENT (FIXED TERM) AN AGREEMENT made the day of 200 BETWEEN Of:.. ( the Tenant ) and. Of: ( the Landlord ). WHEREBY IT IS AGREED as follows: 1. The Landlord agrees to let and the Tenant agrees

More information

GOOD LANDLORD CODE OF PRACTICE FOR PRIVATE RENTED SECTOR MANAGEMENT

GOOD LANDLORD CODE OF PRACTICE FOR PRIVATE RENTED SECTOR MANAGEMENT GOOD LANDLORD CODE OF PRACTICE FOR PRIVATE RENTED SECTOR MANAGEMENT GUIDANCE DOCUMENT Each section contains general information on why the standard was set (Yellow text boxes). In many cases, the standards

More information

Tailored Housing Solutions

Tailored Housing Solutions Tailored Housing Solutions Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council s Empty Homes Private Sector Leasing Scheme An information guide for owners with empty properties What is Private Sector Leasing and how does

More information

1.1 CHISEL's main activity is providing homes for our tenants to rent.

1.1 CHISEL's main activity is providing homes for our tenants to rent. Maintenance Policies 1. Introduction 1.1 CHISEL's main activity is providing homes for our tenants to rent. 1.2 These homes have been provided with the aid of loans and are the security against which the

More information

Repair Guide for Tenants

Repair Guide for Tenants Repair Guide for Tenants REPAIR GUIDE FOR TENANTS 2014 1 This leaflet explains what to do if your home needs repair work. It tells you about what work we will carry out through our repairs contractors,

More information

In simple terms your return on investment of renting out a property is affected by two main things: rental income and your expenses.

In simple terms your return on investment of renting out a property is affected by two main things: rental income and your expenses. Copyright 2015 Letcom property agents 2015 Table of Contents 1 Introduction...2 2 Return on Your Investment...2 2.1 Rental Income...2 2.2 Expenses...3 3 Agreements and Legal Requirements...3 3.1 Agency

More information

London Borough of Redbridge

London Borough of Redbridge London Borough of Redbridge Private Rented Sector Scheme www.redbridge.gov.uk 1 London Borough Of Redbridge Private Rented Sector (PRS) Scheme Redbridge Council is aiming to increase its work within the

More information

Want. to make. your. home. your. own? Find out if this could be the right time to consider buying. Your Right to Buy

Want. to make. your. home. your. own? Find out if this could be the right time to consider buying. Your Right to Buy Council or Housing Association tenants Want Your Right to Buy to make your home your own? Find out if this could be the right time to consider buying 1 Contents Why you might like to buy Why you might

More information

Your Right. to Buy Your Home. A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants

Your Right. to Buy Your Home. A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants Your Right to Buy Your Home A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants Your Right to Buy Your Home About this booklet This booklet is for Scottish secure tenants. If you are not a Scottish secure tenant, you

More information

Your guide to the Vale of White Horse District Council Open Market Equity Loan Scheme

Your guide to the Vale of White Horse District Council Open Market Equity Loan Scheme Your guide to the Vale of White Horse District Council Open Market Equity Loan Scheme Making your aspiration of homeownership a reality Your Home, Your Choice For eligible people living or working in the

More information

This policy details Stonewater s approach to the payment of compensation.

This policy details Stonewater s approach to the payment of compensation. Compensation Policy 1.0 Policy Summary This policy details Stonewater s approach to the payment of compensation. It applies to all tenants. Where differences in the contractual rights of these customers

More information

The Leaseholders Handbook

The Leaseholders Handbook The Leaseholders Handbook Important information for leaseholders and anyone thinking of buying a Gloucester City Homes leasehold flat Gloucester City Homes Railway House Bruton Way Gloucester GL1 1DG Customer

More information

Handbook for homeowners. Everything you need to know about your new home

Handbook for homeowners. Everything you need to know about your new home Handbook for homeowners Everything you need to know about your new home Contents Introduction to this handbook 2 Introducing Knightstone 3 Our service promise 4 Equality of treatment 6 Your lease 7 Improvements

More information

Your guide to YourChoice Open Market Home Purchase Equity Loan Scheme. Making your aspiration of homeownership a reality

Your guide to YourChoice Open Market Home Purchase Equity Loan Scheme. Making your aspiration of homeownership a reality Your guide to YourChoice Open Market Home Purchase Equity Loan Scheme Making your aspiration of homeownership a reality For eligible people living or working in the South Bucks District Council area Delivered

More information

Commercial Property Tenants Your rights and responsibilities

Commercial Property Tenants Your rights and responsibilities Commercial Property Tenants Your rights and responsibilities nihe.gov.uk 03448 920 900 This booklet is intended to help you understand what being a tenant means and give information and guidance on the

More information

WRITTEN STATEMENT OF SERVICE /TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE

WRITTEN STATEMENT OF SERVICE /TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE WRITTEN STATEMENT OF SERVICE /TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SERVICE Subjects covered by this written statement of service are These are the terms and conditions for the provision of a factoring service to owner

More information

RHP SERVICES: INFORMATION FOR LANDLORDS AND PROPERTY OWNERS

RHP SERVICES: INFORMATION FOR LANDLORDS AND PROPERTY OWNERS RHP SERVICES: INFORMATION FOR LANDLORDS AND PROPERTY OWNERS Types of Property We are looking for licensed houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), studio, one, two, three four and five bedroom homes. RHP

More information

This document will be made available in different languages and formats on request, including Braille and audio formats.

This document will be made available in different languages and formats on request, including Braille and audio formats. Policy Title: Policy Manual Section: Policy Number: Performance Standards References: Factoring Housing Management HM21 AS5:2 Date Approved by Management Committee: 25 November 2010 Next Review Date: 3

More information

Retirement Living Housing Options for older people In Warrington

Retirement Living Housing Options for older people In Warrington Retirement Living Housing Options for older people In Warrington 1 CONTENTS 1. Introduction to Housing Options 2. Staying in your own home Warrington Home Information & Improvement Agency (WHiA) Repairs

More information

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT [HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AS. hereby appoint QUADRANT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT [HEREINAFTER REFERRED TO AS. hereby appoint QUADRANT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD Quadrant PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD Kennedy House 115 Hammersmith Road London W14 0QH Telephone 020-7386 8800 Facsimile 020-7386 0440 e-mail: managers@quadman.co.uk website: www.quadrantpm.co.uk Your Ref

More information

Landlord/Agent Code of Conduct

Landlord/Agent Code of Conduct Landlord/Agent Code of Conduct Commitment to this is a requirement of the Home Stamp accreditation scheme The Home Stamp Code of Conduct aims to provide guidance and advice regarding the management of

More information

Your Right. to Buy. A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants

Your Right. to Buy. A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants Your Right to Buy Your Home A guide for Scottish Secure Tenants Your Right to Buy Your Home About this booklet This booklet is for Scottish secure tenants. If you are not a Scottish secure tenant, you

More information

1 Save a deposit. 2 Know your budget. 3 Find your new home. 4 Check everything. 5 Closing the deal

1 Save a deposit. 2 Know your budget. 3 Find your new home. 4 Check everything. 5 Closing the deal 3 4 2 5 1 Buying a home is an exciting experience, but it can also be very stressful. So, being prepared before you start looking for a home will help you through the whole process. 1 Save a deposit 2

More information

Leaseholders guide to making improvements to your home

Leaseholders guide to making improvements to your home Leaseholders guide to making improvements to your home This information is to help you decide whether you are eligible under your leasehold agreement to carry out improvements to your home. It also gives

More information

Buying A HomE THrougH shared ownership WiTH HAsToE

Buying A HomE THrougH shared ownership WiTH HAsToE Buying A HomE THrougH shared ownership WiTH HAsToE 1 The shared ownership scheme if you want to buy a home of your own but don t quite have enough money to do so, shared ownership could be the answer.

More information

Chapter 4. Service charges

Chapter 4. Service charges Chapter 4 Service charges This section gives a brief introduction to service charges. You can find more information in the booklets Consulting leaseholders and section 20 and Bills for major works. You

More information

Your Choice Equity Loan Scheme

Your Choice Equity Loan Scheme Your Choice Equity Loan Scheme Assisting aspiring homeowners to get on to the property ladder Catalyst Housing (Catalyst) is a leading housing association delivering affordable homeownership products across

More information

Frequently Asked Questions on The Management of Long Fox Manor

Frequently Asked Questions on The Management of Long Fox Manor Frequently Asked Questions on The Management of Long Fox Manor The management of leasehold flats and freeholds is not easy to understand. To anyone who is new to this field and the associated terminology,

More information

SERVICE CHARGES and other issues

SERVICE CHARGES and other issues SERVICE CHARGES and other issues Contents Introduction...3 Service charges...3 The law...7 Consultation....9 Service charges: summary and conclusions.... 13 Administration charges...14 Insurance.....................................

More information

Compensation Policy. 1. Aim of policy. Version Number: 2.0 UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED

Compensation Policy. 1. Aim of policy. Version Number: 2.0 UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED Compensation Policy Policy Ref: POL-BA-COMPEN Version Number: 2.0 Policy Owner Customer Insight Lead UNCONTROLLED IF PRINTED 1. Aim of policy 1.1. City West Housing Trust (City West) is constantly striving

More information

Dealing with water leaks

Dealing with water leaks Dealing with water leaks Dealing with water leaks Introduction Water leaks can cause a great deal of damage and should be treated as quickly as possible. This guide explains the responsibilities of leaseholders,

More information

POLICY FOR THE BREATHING SPACE SCHEME

POLICY FOR THE BREATHING SPACE SCHEME POLICY FOR THE BREATHING SPACE SCHEME PREFACE The Council is participating in a regional scheme called Breathing Space. The scheme facilitates the provision of loans in accordance with powers given under

More information

Contents. The service charge The Sinking Fund contribution The management charge Ground rent Buildings insurance The Annual Budget meeting

Contents. The service charge The Sinking Fund contribution The management charge Ground rent Buildings insurance The Annual Budget meeting 2 2 Contents The service charge The Sinking Fund contribution The management charge Ground rent Buildings insurance The Annual Budget meeting If you require assistance with the translation of this handbook

More information

1. Do your research. Speak to local letting agents. They can provide great insights.

1. Do your research. Speak to local letting agents. They can provide great insights. The Meaby Guide to Buy to Let First things first. 1. Do your research. Speak to local letting agents. They can provide great insights. a. What s the demand for rented properties? b. What kind of rental

More information

specialist landlords insurance

specialist landlords insurance landlords key facts specialist landlords insurance LetRisks Landlords Insurance Key Facts LetRisks Specialist Landlords Insurance is underwritten by Electrical Contractors Insurance Company Limited (ECIC)

More information

East Village. you and. your landlord. triathlonhomes.com. East Village you and your landlord 1

East Village. you and. your landlord. triathlonhomes.com. East Village you and your landlord 1 East Village you and your landlord triathlonhomes.com 1 Contact information There are a number of ways you can contact the Triathlon Homes Team. By telephone: 020 8522 2012 Monday to Friday 8:30am-8:30pm.

More information