Becoming a leaseholder can be daunting for the first time apartment owner, therefore we have the following top tips:
Water leaks are the most common cause of damage and insurance claims in blocks of flats. If you are leaving your flat unoccupied for more than 48 hours please turn off the water supply at the stopcock within your flat.
We will request the contact details of an emergency key holder in case access is required while you are away. Please ensure your key holder details remain up to date and that a neighbour can contact you if necessary.
Do not store petrol, gas cylinders, paraffin heaters or similar hazardous materials in your flat or on balconies. Barbecues must not be used on balconies under any circumstances.
Landings, hallways and stairwells must be kept clear at all times. Bicycles, prams, toys and refuse sacks present both a trip hazard and a serious obstruction in the event of an emergency.
Please dispose of rubbish only in the bins or chutes provided. Do not leave refuse in communal areas. Bulky items must not be dumped for others to remove, contact your local council for appropriate disposal arrangements. Ensure you comply with all recycling requirements.
Always ensure the main entrance door to the block is securely closed. Do not allow access to anyone you do not know via the entry system or communal doors.
Most leases impose restrictions on pets and usually require written permission from the landlord or management company before any animal is kept in the property.
In most cases leases do not permit individual satellite dishes to be installed. Please contact us regarding communal systems. Cable installations that require routing through communal areas will also require prior consent.
The building is insured by the management company, however you are responsible for insuring your own contents. Your contents insurance should include liability cover in case a leak from your flat damages neighbouring properties.
If your flat is to be unoccupied for more than 30 days you must notify us. Failure to do so may invalidate any insurance claim.
If your flat has a gas boiler it must be serviced annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Faults can affect not only your own property but also neighbouring flats.
Service charges should be paid promptly to ensure the smooth operation, maintenance and repair of the building for the benefit of all residents.
Do not assume you own or have the right to access any loft space above your flat. Please contact us before attempting to access or use such areas.
Most leases require written permission from the management company for any alterations or improvements other than minor cosmetic changes. Failure to obtain consent may cause complications particularly when selling your property.
Noise is one of the most common causes of disputes between neighbours. Please be considerate and inform neighbours in advance if there will be unavoidable noise from DIY works or contractors.
Wooden floors transmit sound easily and are a frequent source of complaints. Carpets and rugs are the preferred floor coverings in flats and may be required under the terms of your lease.
You will usually require permission to sub-let your flat. Whether you sub-let or not you must provide us with your contact details (or those of your letting agent) tenant details and a copy of the tenancy agreement.
You remain responsible for your tenant’s behaviour and must ensure they are aware of the building’s rules and lease obligations.
Please retain service charge demands, ground rent requests, accounts, budgets and consultation notices. These documents will be important and may save you time and money in the future particularly if you decide to sell.
If a dispute arises with a neighbour try to resolve it amicably between yourselves in the first instance. Getting to know your neighbours can greatly assist in preventing and resolving issues.
Ensure that meter readings are taken when buying or selling a flat. Please note that communal meter cupboards must never be used for storage as this presents a serious fire risk.
If the electrical wiring in your flat is more than 10 years old arrange for it to be tested by a qualified electrician. Many fires are caused by electrical faults.
If parking spaces are allocated, only use the space(s) assigned to you. Do not park in another resident’s space and ensure visitors are aware of the parking rules. Parking of a MOT-ed Vehcile is usually only permitted, so the vehicle can’t be SORN.
Above all ensure you understand how the leasehold system operates, together with your rights and responsibilities. Should you have any queries do check your lease, please do not hesitate to contact your Block Manager at Horizon or seek advice from your solicitor who acted for your purchase.
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