Whether it’s due to poor communication, or a company’s failure to deliver on their promises, it’s apparent if a block management company isn’t performing adequately.

Unfortunately, there are instances whereby the services provided by a block management company don’t meet expectations and a client is left disgruntled.

Regardless of the circumstances, if an experience whilst dealing with a block management company is underwhelming, then it’s important to source a provider who offers a reliable, consistent service.

Scanlans Property Management is a block management company dedicated to providing clients with a level of service befitting of their demands and needs. Our expert team acknowledge that the circumstances surrounding each block vary. Therefore, we take the time to understand the individual requirements of our clients, before providing a reliable and proactive service tailored to meet the client’s needs.

Moreover, as members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA), our clients are provided with thorough support whilst under our guidance.

Because of the high standards we impose at Scanlans Property Management, we’re regarded as a leading block management company. Many organisations within the sector aren’t as meticulous in their approach, in which case, you may need to consider your current service.

Ask the following questions and evaluate the performance levels of your current block management company.

Is Your Block Management Company Working Hard Enough?

A block management company is usually hired by the directors of the residents’ management company to relieve them of the stress and hard work that can be faced when managing a property.

If the directors find themselves carrying out duties or continually chasing the block management company, they’ll ask themselves: ‘Why are we paying a block management company that isn’t doing its job?

If the block management company isn’t performing to their optimum potential and isn’t able to manage a property independently, source an alternative company who regularly fulfil tasks with credence and professionalism. Not only will you save yourself time, but you’ll also get better value for money.

Is Your Building Well-Maintained?

If you have doubts about how well your property is being maintained by your block management company, then this is a sign that you need to contemplate searching for a new company to manage your building.

The frequency of visits is usually set out in the Management Agreement and can affect the level of the management fee.

A reputable block management company will always ensure that they’re making regular visits to your property following the agreed terms. It is important to ensure that reliable and professional contractors are used at all times to ensure a high standard of services.

Block management companies should have a good dialogue with the contractors who will let them know immediately if they spot anything on site that needs dealing with. Residents will also let the block management company know if there is an issue. It’s how quickly the issue is dealt with that is important.

Scanlans Property Management visits properties and blocks to monitor the performance of on-site staff and contractors and to ensure that lease agreements are being complied with. The outcome of all visits is logged by the property manager and any actions dealt with.

If your current block management company isn’t managing your building to check that everything is in order, this leaves your investment susceptible to depreciation. A reliable block management company needs to possess in-depth knowledge of how to successfully manage contractors and staff, conduct inspections, maintenance and arrange repairs – never compromise on quality.

Is Your Block Management Company Following Regulations?

When considering appointing a block management company, always ensure that they are regulated by a professional body. Scanlans Property Management LLP is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA).

In January 2015 Scanlans Property Management achieved ARMA-Q accreditation. ARMA-Q is a self-regulatory regime for ARMA managing agents and demonstrates our commitment to raising standards and offering the best customer service within the residential leasehold sector.

As part of ARMA-Q Scanlans, a self-regulatory regime introduced by The Association of Residential Managing Agents, Scanlans Property Management are obligated to comply with the following Consumer Charter:

• Be honest, fair, open and transparent and provide a timely and professional service with access to the information needed.

• Act with skill, care, diligence and without discrimination.

• Make sure that all staff are appropriately trained and knowledgeable.

• Have written terms of business.

• Provide a complaint handling procedure specifying the ombudsman scheme to which we subscribe.

• Comply with all relevant legal requirements and relevant codes of practice.

• Avoid conflicts of interest.

• Maintain clear, accurate and up-to-date financial records.

• Ensure that any client money is held separately from the managing agent’s other monies.

• Hold appropriate professional indemnity insurance.

As members of the RICS, we are required to comply with a strict code of conduct including compliance with the RICS Members Accounts Regulations.

Should there be any qualms about whether a block management company is genuine, always be sure to cover your back; follow your gut instinct and address any concerns that you may have with the relevant bodies.

Is Your Block Management Company Contactable?

In business, never underestimate the value of communication. Regularly liaising with your block management company will increase the likelihood of work being completed and reduce the probability of mistakes that can be easily avoided.

Should you have any queries, or if you’d like to raise any potential concerns, don’t feel reluctant to contact your block management company. Remember, it’s their job to ensure that the property under their management is being handled correctly.

If your service provider cannot be reached, or if they’re ignoring your correspondence, alarm bells should be ringing. The company who you’ve entrusted to manage your property should reply to missed calls or emails swiftly.

Even on national holidays, including Christmas day, there should always be a contact number available in case of emergency.

Scanlans Property Management:
Your Proficient Block Management Company

During the last one hundred and sixty years, Scanlans has established a rich heritage and has an enviable reputation as a well-respected, knowledgeable block management company.

In recent times, we’ve further broadened our horizons, working alongside Pad Residential, a city centre company offering a range of services, including sales and lettings.

Such is the reputation here at Scanlans, that we’re currently managing over three-hundred developments in the North West, Yorkshire, Merseyside, Cheshire, and The Midlands – we’d be delighted to add your development to our growing portfolio.

Call Scanlans on 0161 236 8888, discuss your requirements with a member of our specialist team and experience the services of a revered block management company.