Block Management
by nick shaw | Oct 28, 2026 | News, Block Management
A practical guide to Right to Manage (RTM), eligibility, the legal process and what happens when leaseholders take over the management of their building. If you own a leasehold flat and are unhappy with how your building is managed, you may feel that important...
by nick shaw | Oct 7, 2026 | News, Block Management
If you own a leasehold flat, you may see a contribution towards a reserve fund or sinking fund included within your service charge. It can sometimes feel like you’re being asked to pay today for work that might not happen for several years, but there is an...
by nick shaw | Aug 27, 2026 | News, Block Management
When people think about block management, their first thoughts are often maintenance, repairs, communal cleaning and keeping the building compliant. But behind all of these responsibilities sits something equally important: good financial management. Managing the...
by KerryOAK | Aug 14, 2026 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord
At Oakfield, we’ve always believed that great estate agency isn’t about selling someone a property. It’s about understanding people, giving honest advice and helping them make the right decision for them. It’s why our philosophy is simple: people, not property. The...
by KerryOAK | Aug 13, 2026 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
For landlords, finding a tenant has traditionally involved a familiar process: an application, proof of income, references, identification and affordability checks. But tenancy fraud is becoming increasingly sophisticated, and what looks genuine on paper may no longer...
by KerryOAK | Aug 5, 2026 | Block Management, News, Seller, Landlord
Your block managing agent plays a vital role in protecting your property’s value, maintaining communal areas, ensuring legal compliance, and keeping residents informed. But what happens when the service you’re receiving falls short? If you’ve been...
by KerryOAK | Jul 20, 2026 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
If you’ve been following the news, you may have heard claims that the property market has slowed to a standstill. Headlines about interest rates, affordability and economic uncertainty can make it seem as though selling a home is more difficult than ever. But here’s...
by KerryOAK | Jul 15, 2026 | Seller, Landlord, Block Management, News
For many leaseholders living in buildings under 11 metres, the cladding crisis has felt like an impossible situation. While larger buildings have benefited from government funding for several years, thousands of residents in lower-rise developments have been left...
by KerryOAK | May 27, 2026 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
Fire safety in residential blocks has never been more important. Following changes in legislation and increased scrutiny across the property sector, leaseholders, directors of Resident Management Companies (RMCs), and freeholders all have greater responsibilities when...
by KerryOAK | May 8, 2026 | Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management, News
With the upcoming changes under the Renters Rights Act, many landlords will already be aware of the wider legislation changes following our previous updates and blogs. However, one key requirement that cannot be overlooked is the need to provide tenants with the...
by KerryOAK | May 5, 2026 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord
The homebuying journey is often seen as an exciting milestone—but for many buyers and sellers, it can quickly become a test of patience. Recent reports have highlighted that conveyancing is now considered the slowest part of the entire process, causing delays that can...
by KerryOAK | May 5, 2026 | News, Landlord, Block Management
As of last month, there has been an important change in building safety legislation that directly impacts the management of certain mid-rise residential buildings. Previously, the requirement to implement Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) was focused on...
by KerryOAK | Apr 27, 2026 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
This week marks a major turning point for the UK rental market, as the Renters’ Rights Act comes into force from 1 May 2026—bringing the biggest shake-up to lettings in decades. For landlords, the legislation introduces real, immediate changes. The question is no...
by KerryOAK | Apr 19, 2026 | News, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
When searching for a rental property, tenants are not just choosing a home—they’re choosing an experience. Increasingly, tenants are favouring properties that are fully managed by professional letting agents rather than those offered on a “let only” basis. But why is...
by KerryOAK | Mar 27, 2026 | Seller, Landlord, Block Management, News, Buyer
The UK property market is on the brink of one of its most significant transformations in decades. With the introduction of the Future Homes Standard, the government is setting a clear direction toward more sustainable, energy-efficient housing. But what does this...
by KerryOAK | Feb 17, 2026 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
Leasehold properties often have a reputation for being slower and more complicated to sell. Between management packs, service charge accounts, insurance documentation and solicitor enquiries, delays can quickly build up. However, with the right preparation and a...
by KerryOAK | Feb 7, 2026 | Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Block Management, News
Recent industry news has once again highlighted the importance of competent, compliant and knowledgeable block and property management. Articles such as Property Industry Eye’s report on firms being expelled from The Property Ombudsman have understandably raised...
by KerryOAK | Jan 28, 2026 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
The UK Government has now formally confirmed that all private rented homes must achieve at least an EPC C rating by 1 October 2030, or hold a valid exemption in order to continue letting legally. This announcement forms part of the new Warm Homes Plan and represents a...
by KerryOAK | Jan 7, 2026 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
With rising costs and increased scrutiny on service charges, it’s understandable that some leaseholders consider managing their block themselves. On the surface, self-management can appear straightforward — after all, how hard can it be to arrange insurance, collect...
by KerryOAK | Jan 5, 2026 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
When major works or long-term contracts are required in a leasehold building, the landlord or managing agent must follow a formal consultation process known as Section 20. This is a legal requirement designed to protect leaseholders by ensuring transparency, value for...
by KerryOAK | Dec 30, 2025 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord
After the quiet pause of the Christmas season, January brings a wave of fresh motivation — and the property market is no exception. Every year, we see a surge of buyers who start searching for their next home as soon as the new year begins. Whether driven by personal...
by KerryOAK | Dec 15, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
As the temperatures drop and the nights draw in, winter can be tough on our homes. Cold weather, heavy rain, and strong winds all add extra pressure to the structure and systems we rely on every day. A little preparation now can prevent costly repairs later — and...
by KerryOAK | Dec 1, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
Over the past few years, the rules around building safety have changed dramatically—yet many blocks still aren’t sure whether they actually count as a “high-rise” under the law. And that’s a serious problem, because once a building meets the high-rise threshold, very...
by KerryOAK | Nov 4, 2025 | Block Management, News, Seller, Landlord
Managing a block of flats can be complex — from maintenance and insurance to service charges and legal obligations. Many leaseholders are unaware that they have a powerful legal right to take more control over how their building is managed. This is known as the Right...
by KerryOAK | Nov 4, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
On 27 October 2025, the Renters’ Rights Bill officially became law when it received Royal Assent, thus becoming the Renters’ Rights Act 2025. This marks what the government calls “the most significant increase to renter rights in a generation”. The Act is designed to...
by KerryOAK | Oct 27, 2025 | Landlord, Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller
Energy efficiency has become one of the most important factors in the property market — not just for tenants and buyers, but for landlords too. With government targets to make the UK’s housing stock greener and more efficient, Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)...
by KerryOAK | Oct 16, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
If you own a flat in a managed building, you’ve probably heard the term “Section 20” mentioned at some point — often when larger repair or maintenance projects are being planned. It can sound technical, but understanding what Section 20 means (and why it matters) is...
by KerryOAK | Oct 6, 2025 | News, Block Management
When you buy a property in a block of flats, one of the most important things you should check is whether the block has a professional managing agent in place. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re house-hunting, but it can make all the...
by KerryOAK | Sep 30, 2025 | News, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
Across the UK, the Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector has been expanding at pace. These purpose-built rental developments are reshaping the way people rent, offering high-quality homes with professional management and community-focused amenities. But what does this mean for...
by KerryOAK | Sep 29, 2025 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for autumn. Taking a few simple steps now can help keep your property warm, safe, and efficient throughout the colder months. Here’s a quick checklist to guide you: 1....
by KerryOAK | Sep 22, 2025 | News, Block Management
Managing residential blocks can be complex. Between balancing resident expectations, keeping up with regulations, and maintaining buildings, challenges can quickly mount up. The good news? With the right systems, experience, and proactive approach, these problems...
by KerryOAK | Sep 16, 2025 | Block Management, News, Seller, Landlord
When you own a flat in a block or serve as a freeholder, the role of your managing agent is critical. A proactive managing agent doesn’t just “keep things ticking over” — they actively protect and enhance the value of your property. From compliance to communication,...
by KerryOAK | Sep 11, 2025 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
Across England today, there are more than 260,000 long-term empty homes—properties that have stood vacant for over six months. When you add in all those that are temporarily vacant, second homes, or awaiting sale, the figure rises to almost one million. At a time when...
by KerryOAK | Sep 3, 2025 | News, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
When it comes to block management, nothing is more important than the health, safety, and wellbeing of the people who live in and visit your building. That’s why The Property Institute (TPI) sets strict professional standards for its members, ensuring that vital...
by KerryOAK | Aug 27, 2025 | Tenant, Block Management, News, Landlord
Back in our earlier blog, we outlined the proposed changes under the Renters’ Rights Bill. At that stage, the legislation was still making its way through the early stages of Parliament. Fast forward to now: the Bill has passed through the House of Lords and is...
by KerryOAK | Aug 21, 2025 | News, Block Management
Annual General Meetings (AGMs) are a core part of residential block management, yet many leaseholders and residents often overlook their importance. Far from being a formality, AGMs are a key opportunity for residents and directors to stay informed, make decisions,...
by KerryOAK | Aug 12, 2025 | Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management, News
The property industry in England — encompassing estate agents, lettings agents, and managing agents — remains notably unregulated. In contrast to professions like law or healthcare, anyone can operate in this sector without formal qualifications. This lack of...
by KerryOAK | Aug 6, 2025 | News, Buyer, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
Let’s face it — being a landlord isn’t always smooth sailing.Void periods, tricky tenancies, rising compliance demands, unexpected maintenance issues… it can sometimes feel like a never-ending cycle, especially in a shifting rental market. But the right letting agent...
by KerryOAK | Jul 31, 2025 | Landlord, Block Management, News, Seller
In recent years, the topic of service charges has come under increasing scrutiny from both leaseholders and regulatory bodies. With the cost of living still impacting many households and growing expectations around transparency and value for money, there’s a clear...
by KerryOAK | Jul 14, 2025 | News, Landlord, Block Management
If you live in a leasehold flat within a block of flats, you may have heard about the Right to Manage (RTM)—a legal process that allows leaseholders to take control of the management of their building, without having to prove any fault with the current managing agent...
by KerryOAK | Jul 11, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Block Management
At a time when the market is showing signs of hesitation, one thing remains true: motivated sellers need motivated buyers—and the bridge between them is built on accurate pricing and smart negotiation. If you’re thinking about selling, you’ve probably...
by KerryOAK | Jul 3, 2025 | Landlord, Block Management, News, Seller
In residential block management, regular site inspections are essential — yet they’re often overlooked or reduced to a quick tick-box exercise. Inspections that are well-planned and actually happen can make all the difference when it comes to the safety, upkeep, and...
by KerryOAK | Jun 23, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant, Block Management
When it comes to property, there’s one phrase that never goes out of style: location, location, location. But why does it matter so much? In East Sussex, it’s not just about where you live — it’s about how you live. Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or...
by KerryOAK | Jun 20, 2025 | Seller, Landlord, Block Management, News
For leaseholders and property managers alike, major works and Section 20 consultations are important but often misunderstood parts of block management. Whether it’s a roof replacement, external decoration, or structural repairs, knowing your rights and...
by KerryOAK | Jun 11, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Block Management
If you’re thinking of moving this year, you’re not alone — and you’re not late. Despite ongoing shifts in the economy and housing policy, the property market in the UK remains active, stable, and full of opportunity for those ready to make a move....
by KerryOAK | Jun 2, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Block Management
Buying or selling a leasehold property in a block of flats has often been complicated by cladding concerns and the need for EWS1 forms. But a new statement from UK Finance, supported by major lenders and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), brings some...
by KerryOAK | May 30, 2025 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Tenant
We’re excited to bring you the latest news on one of Hastings’ most talked-about new developments — Station Plaza. Situated in a prime location right next to Hastings train station and just a short walk from the seafront, this project has been attracting attention...
by KerryOAK | May 29, 2025 | News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord, Block Management
Whether you’re selling, letting, or managing a property, you’ve likely come across the term EPC—but what exactly is it, and why does it matter so much? At Oakfield Estate Agents, we work with landlords, sellers, and buyers across East Sussex, and EPCs (Energy...
by KerryOAK | May 14, 2025 | Block Management, News, Buyer, Seller, Landlord
Since the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, the government has introduced tougher regulations to ensure buildings—especially high-rise and multi-occupancy blocks—meet the highest fire safety standards. The Building Safety Act 2022 and the Fire Safety (England)...
by KerryOAK | Apr 23, 2025 | News, Block Management
The leasehold system in England and Wales has long been a topic of debate, with many leaseholders feeling at a disadvantage due to escalating ground rents, service charges, and limited control over their properties. However, significant reforms are underway that aim...