Valid service charge

[scot22]

A concern is did you ask for confirmation they had received the new contact details ? Did it raise an alarm that there were no communications coming ? I appreciate hindsight is wonderful and I'm sure we all wish there is something we'd done differently.
however, in my opinion, they are being...

[scot22]

Might I respectfully compliment you eagle2 on both your polite description of the biased and unsympathetic comment and your helpful advice.
I always feel, if possible, it is better to try to talk and look for a mutually satisfying agreement.

[scot22]

In my many communications with LEASE the importance of professional advice has always been stressed. You have employed a competent tree surgeon.
Tell them you have done things correctly and you are not taking any more action with this.

[scot22]

If it is not covered by the lease I suggest you do nothing other than tell them it is not required by the lease. If they want work done, which is permissible under the lease, they must organise and pay for it themselves. It is the person who places the order who has prime responsibility to pay.

[scot22]

Unfortunately this thread has descended into people joining in to pick on one poster. I will not post or return read anything on this thread. For information, the advice was given without charge, cue snide comments. Disappointing.

[scot22]

I appreciate your response. However, in my way, I consider it better to say simply that you disagree. Again, I agree it is necessary to have clarity. Previously I've accepted that I may be too sensitive but my feeling is that people should show more consideration in their use of language.
The...

[scot22]

I am still visiting ! I agree with all you say in your post . I hold a strong believe that respectful discussion is fine.
Where I considered myself in a minority is considering dismissing something as rubbish to be rude.
Reasoned and courteous debate is very valuable. Perhaps I'm too...

[scot22]

Obviously my my views are in a minority. So best wishes to you all and goodbye.

[scot22]

Please advise us of your qualications. I have never known a knowledgeable person to be rude.
Another solicitor advised that if the condition of the flat was no worse than when bought them no liability. I have obtained qualified advice.
However, I suspect if it is not what you think then...

[scot22]

Yes it is. Apologies if it's boring but this is an interminable saga !
There is no further deterioration and probably not most cost effective taking into account accepting responsibility for tanking and effect on other dwellings, displaced water will find somewhere to go.
One solicitor...

[scot22]

Is tanking the external wall of a first floor flat a valid service charge expense under a maintain and repair lease ?

The flat was priced as having a damp issue. The situation has not changed since purchase.

[scot22]

My usual comment. Listen to ram's experience and knowledge.

[scot22]

I agree with both previous posts. An initial proposal only was accepted. Sorry you have spent thousands but not optimistic about a good outcome for you. Best Wishes for you being successful....

[scot22]

Usual high quality advice from Ram. I would emphasise a solicitor experienced in leasehold. Those not can be rather ineffectual.

[scot22]

L64 advice is spot on. We used to manage in a fairly relaxed. Unfortunately, a new lease holder abused this. In my experience it is essential to do everything by the book to avoid potential problems.

[scot22]

Don't often bother repeating myself. However, keep it simple. Form a Company to buy Freehold. Cost of shares to be cost of freehold divided by number of shareholders. Company run according to Articles of Association. Actions according to lease and legal requirements. Keep it simple.

[scot22]

I would strongly advise against giving everyone a vote. It would prove far too unwieldy. If they don't buy into the freehold then tough.
Are you going to form a Company to own the freehold ? Then you will need to appoint a manageable number of directors. Decision making needs to efficient and...

[scot22]

#10. I should have added service charge always has, and does, pay for exterior painting of windows.

[scot22]

We have a situation where some replaced Windows with your others chose not to. The responsibility for to maintain or repair wooden Windows is still with everyone.

[scot22]

Seems to me you are thinking very clearly and calmly about costs. Niggle away at them and best of luck.