Residential block managers could soon be subject to a new code of practice in a move which is designed to root out rogue operators and improve professionalism across the sector.

The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RCIS) and the Property Ombudsman have launched a joint consultation into the proposed code and are looking for comments from agents, homeowners and tenants.

The new standards, which will be called the Block Management Sector Code, is likely to cover the following areas:

• Increased transparency over service charges and management fees.
• Support for dealing with occupier disputes.
• Recognising consumers’ use of social media and guidance on how best to work with residents’ associations.
• Updated complaints processes.
• Clear instructions on how to adopt best practice for securing new business.

Although the RICS is mainly looking for feedback from within England, the new code could be adopted across the whole of the UK. The consultation is open until 14 September 2021. Groups already taking part include ARLA and NAEA Propertymark, the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) and representatives from the Government’s Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Mairéad Carroll, RICS Senior Specialist for Land and Property Standards, said: “This proposed code looks to build on the best practice seen by regulated professionals, root out rogue agents and enhance relations between professional managing agents and the homeowners or tenants they work with, by setting out clear guidelines for agents to follow which consumers can understand.”

Maunder Taylor offer high-quality residential block management services in Barnet, Potters Bar, Totteridge and Whetstone, and many other parts of North London and Hertfordshire. We pride ourselves on our expertise and have a number of professional qualifications relevant to the sector. Our staff are members of both RICS and ARMA, while our property managers all belong to the Institute of Residential Property Managers (IRPM). We can represent residential management companies, Right to Manage companies, freehold companies and investor landlords. If you would like to know more about our services, follow this link or call our Potters Bar office on 01707 665 666.