Improving Property Management Services

If you've ever found finding the right property manager to be hit-and-miss, the good news is that a new block management code of practice is being developed to improve the service leaseholders can expect from their managing agents.

Commitment to High Standards

At Ringley, we are dedicated to providing professional services to both landlords and residents. Our managing agents are either qualified or in the process of earning their industry qualifications, and we continuously strive to maintain high standards of customer care and communication.

Challenges in an Unregulated Industry

Despite our commitment, we operate in a largely unregulated industry, where rogue agents can tarnish the reputation of legitimate providers. This makes it essential for us to work even harder to offer the best services to our clients.

Collaboration for New Rules

We welcome the work being done by RICS, The Property Ombudsman (TPO), and the government-backed Ropa Code of Practice Steering Group to develop new rules for agents. The block management code is based on best practices from professional bodies like RICS and IRPM and outlines standards that managing agents in the leasehold sector should follow.

What’s Included in the New Code

The new code, which is now out for consultation, includes:

• Increased transparency over service charges and management fees
• Clear advice on handling occupier disputes
• Updated complaints processes
• Best practices for securing new business and exposing rogue agents
• Guidance on working with leaseholders and residents' associations, especially in the digital age

The Impact of the Code

We hope the code will be adopted as it brings agents closer to their clients and customers. While communication lines between our staff and clients are always open, this is not always the case with other block managers. If the proposed changes help improve understanding and raise industry standards, we believe it is definitely worth supporting.