Shropshire agent appeals to apartment owners
A leading local block management agent is urging those who own or rent an apartment in the county to review their current managing agent’s service, in light of evidence that shows too many are receiving poor or inadequate care, or else paying well above the odds for simple service.
Shropshire-based Nock Deighton claims that many property owners are losing out by staying with their current management companies, simply because they don’t know that they have the right to go elsewhere.
Dawn Clarke, Director and Head of Lettings and Property Management at Nock Deighton, explained: “If you are the owner of an apartment, you have the right to choose who manages your property, and ultimately, where and how your service charges are being spent. There is a common assumption that you are legally obliged to maintain the existing relationship, but this simply is not the case. People don’t have to put up with poor service and there are certainly ways to get out of a contract if you are dissatisfied with the service you are receiving.
“Part of the problem with management companies is that they are often based hundreds of miles from where the property is located, which means that not only is it difficult for the owner to build up a close relationship with the agent, but it can also often be financially detrimental. There have been cases, for example, where a property owner has been presented with a bill for as much as £85 for something as straightforward as changing a light bulb, simply because the management company used an external contractor local to them, rather than the property.
“Residential block management is a complex area and, as the only agent in Shropshire to be a member of the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA), we are committed to working to stringent professional codes of practice which ensures that situations like this do not occur. We offer a truly local service that enables us to effectively respond to our client’s needs, whether conducting site visits to accompany contractors, overseeing work, or inspecting any reported issues. Not only that, but we have good relationships with local trades people so we can provide the best service at the most cost-effective price.
“We believe that having a local managing agent is essential for anyone who owns or rents a property within a shared building, and we would recommend that individuals review their current provider and consider if they are really getting the service they deserve. We’d welcome anyone currently in this position to give us a call for a free, absolutely no-obligation chat where we can help you make the most of your property.”
Founded in 1831, Nock Deighton is one of the Midlands’ most well-established and respected firms of estate agents, lettings agents, chartered surveyors, block management agents, and auctioneers. The company stands at the forefront of the modern property sector by embracing up-to-the-minute technology and industry best practice, and has a firm focus on achieving the very best results through a full range of specialist property-related services and dedicated staff.
For further information on Nock Deighton’s professional services please visit www.nockdeighton.co.uk or contact: the Ironbridge office on 01952 432533; the Telford office on 01952 292300; the Bridgnorth office on 01746 767767; the Ludlow office on 01584 875555; or the Shrewsbury office on 01743 241251.
