A national survey of the country’s 4.1m leaseholders has been launched.
It is thought to be the first such study and aims to assess residents’ levels of satisfaction with managing agents.
In particular, it will look at service charge levels, service provision, and awareness of leaseholders’ own rights and responsibilities.
It has been developed by LEASE, the Government’s arm’s-length body for the leasehold property sector, and property law firm Brady Solicitors.
Roger Southam, chairman of LEASE, said: “Leasehold properties are being built at a rate of close to 120,000 per year, yet there is no definitive understanding of what is desired – both in terms of build and the management services that are subsequently provided.
“We are urging all leaseholders, and the RMC directors that represent them, to have their say by taking part in this unique and important piece of research into the leasehold sector in England and Wales.”
Southam said the survey results would help managing agents to understand how and where they need to improve.
Of the 4.1m leaseholders across the UK, LEASE estimates approximately 27% are in London, 22% in the north-west, 14% in the south-east, 7% in the south-west, 7% in Yorkshire & Humber, 7% in the west midlands, 6% in the east, 4% in the north-east and 3% in both the east midlands and Wales.
Brady Solicitors managing director Clare Brady said: “Our work within the residential property management sector demonstrates there are many exceptionally well-managed blocks and estates.
“This is particularly so when the managing agent is a member of the Association of Residential Managing Agents, the Association of Residential Letting Agents, or the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
“However, the frequency and sheer volume of disputes over service charges and property management matters suggest there are many areas where improvements can still be made.”
The survey will be open until the end of March.
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