Current Situation at Chalkwell Lodge

At Chalkwell Lodge, many residents share concerns about the lack of transparency, accountability, and fair treatment by the managing agents, Hair and Son. Over the years, leaseholders have raised questions about rising service charges, unexplained costs, and a lack of meaningful engagement. Unfortunately, the responses we’ve received have been far from satisfactory.

Key Issues:

1. Refusal to Provide Receipts and Invoices

Despite multiple formal requests under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (Sections 21 and 22), Hair and Son have:

• Refused to supply invoices for significant expenditures, such as the caretaker’s flat refurbishment.
• Claimed that invoices for the current financial year will only be available after the accounts are audited, delaying transparency.
• Attempted to charge leaseholders additional fees for retrieving archived receipts, even though this information is legally required.

2. Dismissive and Evasive Communication

Hair and Son’s communication has been characterised by:

• Delays in responding to formal requests.
• Deflecting responsibility and avoiding accountability for significant financial decisions.
• A lack of empathy or understanding for leaseholders’ concerns, especially regarding financial pressures during challenging economic times.

3. Lack of Consultation

Leaseholders have not been consulted on:

• Major projects like the refurbishment of the caretaker’s flat.
• Increases in service charges or significant budget allocations. This goes against the principles of Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, which requires consultation for works exceeding £250 per leaseholder.

4. Opaque Committee Operations

While committee meetings are supposed to represent the interests of all leaseholders:

• Minutes of meetings are not shared with residents.
• Financial decisions are made behind closed doors, with little to no input from the wider community.
• Leaseholders who raise questions or concerns are often dismissed as “difficult” or “confrontational.”

How This Affects You

• Rising Costs: Service charges have increased significantly over the years, yet residents have little clarity on where their money is going.
• Lack of Voice: Decisions are being made about your home and finances without your input.
• Missed Opportunities: Without proper engagement, residents are denied the opportunity to influence decisions that directly impact them.

Our Response

The Chalkwell Lodge Residents’ Association (CLRA) was formed to address these issues head-on. We are committed to:

• Demanding Transparency: Ensuring all financial documents, receipts, and invoices are available for inspection.
• Holding Hair and Son Accountable: Challenging any breaches of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 through appropriate legal channels.
• Empowering Residents: Providing a platform for leaseholders to voice their concerns, engage in decision-making, and advocate for fairer management practices.

What You Can Do

• Join the CLRA and add your voice to the growing community of residents demanding change.
• Stay informed about your rights and the ongoing issues at Chalkwell Lodge.
• Work with us to explore alternative management options that prioritise transparency, accountability, and fairness.

  WHAT ARE YOUR THOGUHTS?

• Simply fill out the form below to share your experience, thoughts, and improvements.