Self-Managing Your Block?

Self-management may appear cost-effective, but it exposes freeholders to legal, financial and safety risks that are often underestimated.

The hidden dangers

1. Missed compliance deadlines – Fire risk assessments, EICRs, lift inspections

2. Personal liability – Directors and freeholders can be prosecuted

3. Invalid insurance – Non-compliance may void cover

4. Incorrect service charges – Section 20 mistakes are costly

5. Contractor disputes – No written scope or RAMS

6. Poor record keeping – A major problem during inspections

7. Leaseholder conflict – Lack of transparency damages trust

The reality

Modern block management is no longer just collecting service charges. It is a regulated, compliance-driven profession.

When to consider a specialist

• Your block has more than 6 flats

• You have communal systems (fire alarm, lifts, boilers)

• You haven’t reviewed compliance in 12 months

• You are unsure about Building Safety Act duties

Professional management often reduces total costs by preventing enforcement, emergency repairs and legal disputes.