Service charge disputes

💬 Service Charge Disputes – What to Do

We always try to make sure your service charges are fair and correct.
But if you think we’ve made a mistake, here’s what you can do.

📝 Step 1 – Contact Us

If you think a charge is wrong:

• Contact our Leasehold Management Officer
• Tell us which charge you’re disputing and why
• You must still pay for any charges you don’t disagree with

We’ll look into your complaint and either:

• Change your account if we made a mistake
• Or explain why the charge is correct

⚖️ Step 2 – Leasehold Tribunal

If you still think the charge is unfair, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) (formerly Leasehold Valuation Tribunal).

They are independent and will decide if the charge is reasonable.

The tribunal usually includes:

• A lawyer
• A valuer or surveyor
• A lay person (someone with experience)

You can challenge:

• Charges for work already done
• Charges for services already provided
• Advance payments
• Planned future work

The tribunal’s decision is final and can be enforced.
You may be able to appeal to the Land Tribunal if the panel agrees.

💷 Fees

You’ll need to pay a set fee to apply.
Fees depend on:

• How much money is in dispute
• How many homes are affected

For example:

• Disputes under £500: £50
• Disputes over £15,000: £350
• For 5 or fewer homes: £150
• For more than 10 homes: £350

📞 Need Help?

You can get free advice from the Leasehold Advisory Service:

📍 Address: 2 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DF
📞 Phone: 020 7832 2500
🌐 Visit their website