Service Charges

This page explains what service charges are, what they help pay for and where you can get more information if you have questions.

What are service charges?

Service charges help cover the cost of maintaining and managing shared areas and communal services across your building or estate. 

Who pays service charges?

A service charge is a payment made by a tenant, leaseholder or homeowner towards the cost of services, repairs and maintenance that are shared across a building or estate. 

How are service charges calculated?

At the beginning of your service charge year (which is detailed in your lease) we will send you a service charge estimate. This letter estimates the amount we expect to spend on your block/estate during the next year. We calculate the estimates based on expected servicing costs, contracts and prior year actual costs. You then pay for the full-service charge year based on the amount listed within the estimate. 

Why do service charges exist?

Service charges help ensure communal areas, shared services and shared facilities are maintained to a good standard for everyone who lives in the building or neighbourhood.

 

What services might be included in my service charge?

Leaseholders 
If you are a leaseholder, your service charge may include: 

  • Ground rent  
  • Buildings insurance  
  • Management fees  
  • Responsive repairs  
  • Estate and block maintenance  
  • Communal services  
  • Freeholders

If you are a freeholder, your charges may include: 

  • Estate maintenance  
  • Routine estate repairs  
  • Management fees  
Questions about your service charge?

If you have questions about:

  • Your annual statement
  • Charges on your account
  • Major works costs
  • Services you receive

Please do:

  1. Read our service charge booklet here
  2. Check out our homeowner FAQs here
  3. Contact our team by email to: customer.services@gatewayhousing.org.uk or by phone 0208 709 4300.
Have your say

We encourage leaseholders and shared owners to help shape our services through:

  • Resident Panels
  • Surveys
  • Consultations
  • Feedback opportunities

Find out how you can get involved here.