Major Works Cost Issue With Council as Landlord

Hi All,

We have received a letter from our landlord who are the local council for our leasehold flat. They want to charge us 50% of the cost of a new roof for our maisonette.

This shared cost is obviously normal and expected and has been for minor things over the years, but the total cost their chosen contractor wants is £38k and our share is £21k. As there are also admin and service fees added!

The problem we have is we don't believe they have gone through the correct procedure and this is the first letter we have received regarding it. Therefore, there is no evidence of tender, details of why the contractor was chosen, and evidence of ensuring competitiveness.

Second issue is we believe the cost estimate are double market rate. Based on conversations with roofing companies they think £18k would be more realistic, meaning our half would be more £9k. An example.of the inflated costs is the scaffolding element which they want £6.5k for and based on phone calls with roofers they think £1.5k is the going rate.

We are assuming this letter is what they deem a section 20. But seems they have just gone straight to selecting the company to carry out the works with no pre consultation.

Looking for some advice if we are able to challenge costs and procedure thus far.

Thanks.