Leaseholder FAQs
Here you will find answers to many of the frequently asked questions we get from our leaseholders.
- What is a block charge?
- What are actual service charges?
- What is the First Tier Tribunal?
- Can I replace my existing windows?
- Why should I pay for bulk rubbish to be collected?
- What are estimated service charges?
- How do I know if the service charges for homeowners are reasonable?
- Do I have a separate major works account?
- When can I expect to be consulted about work to be carried out to the property or estate?
- If I do not agree with my service charges do I have to pay them?
- If I have an issue regarding any service I receive from Gateway, how do I raise it?
- When will I receive my estimated service charge?
- What dates does the financial year run from and to?
- How is the decision made on who should do the work?
- Where can I obtain independent financial advice?
- What is an estate charge?
- Can I sublet my flat?
- Is there any limit to the costs of major repairs and maintenance?
- How do I get a breakdown of my service charges?
- Can I keep pets?
If I do not agree with my service charges do I have to pay them?
If there is an element of your service charge that you dispute, then you should contact us advising which element it is and why you are disputing it. While we are investigating this you must pay the rest of your service charges. We will write back to you with the findings of our investigation and if we uphold your dispute then the charge will be reduced or removed, as appropriate. If we do not uphold it then it will become due for payment. We aim to write to you with an outcome within 28 days of your raising the dispute. If we do not uphold your dispute and you are unhappy with this decision you can apply to the First Tier Tribunal-Property Chamber (Residential Property) or a County Court for a judgement on this. You may wish to seek independent legal advice in this respect.