No one wants to live in an apartment where the gardens are a mess, the paint is peeling off in the entranceway or the lights are flickering in the corridors. If you do not have the time or expertise to manage your own block, you need to hire a block manager. Having an arrangement in place to deal with maintenance matters (amongst other services) will keep your leaseholders happy. A poorly managed block looks bad for existing residents and will fail to attract new ones. It also has a financial impact; potentially devaluing the property too.
So, what does a block manager actually do? Well, they provide a professional management service for a block or property. They take care of the general maintenance, refurbishments and cleaning, as well as handling the financial and legal side of things. By hiring one, your property will be maintained to a high standard which will boost its marketability.
What skills should a good block manager possess?
A good block manager should possess expertise in managing blocks, as well as holding the correct qualifications and being compliant with regulations. They should be thoroughly knowledgeable, professional, and committed to best practice. What’s more, they need to offer a cost-effective service.
In this blog, Taylor Chartered Surveyor discuss what makes a good block manager. If you’re looking to hire one, Taylor are a block management company for London and the surrounding area. We offer block management in London and Essex. Get in touch to discuss how we can work with you to keep on top of your residential complex.
Knowledgeable and experienced
The role is very diverse, so a good block manager will possess in-depth knowledge of a wide range of skills. They need to have a deep understanding of leases as well as landlord and tenant legislation, always keeping up to date with any legislation changes. As well as this, they must adhere to standards and codes of practice. A good block manager will have a proven track record and a portfolio of properties that they manage.
Good communicator
Communication is key. A good block manager needs to be articulate and provide smooth communication with all stakeholders. They should always keep you and the tenants up to date on any developments. They also need to have good listening skills as they will mediate any problems between tenants. They must take everyone’s concerns seriously. It will be up to them to find a resolution to any conflict.
Build strong relationships
The role involves working with many different people, so they need to have strong interpersonal skills. A good block manager will put people first. They must maintain positive connections with clients, suppliers, contractors and tenants. They need to help you to understand your rights and obligations as a block owner.
Provide a high level of customer service
Block management is a front-facing role. It’s imperative that they deliver excellent customer service. They need to be patient as they’ll be dealing with stressful things like difficult tenants and potential building defects. They need to be quick to respond and provide you with guidance and advice.
Be transparent
A capable block manager should be able to provide you with full access to their accounting facilities for budgeting, service charge and year-end accounting. This information should always be documented and well-organised so that they can provide it to you in a timely manner whenever it is requested. They also need to be open about the service providers that they use. Transparency is a must for this role. Both you as the owner and the tenants should be able to see that the service charge money is spent wisely.
Resolve issues quickly
Conflict resolution is an important skill that a good block manager should possess. They will be handling issues with contractors and settling disputes between tenants.
Proactive attitude
A proactive block manager is a must. You need to feel like you’re receiving a good service from them. A strong block manager will protect the property by anticipating problems and preventing them from spiralling.
Remain calm under pressure
There’s no denying that block management is a stressful role. They must be able to think quickly and remain calm under pressure whether they’re dealing with a contractor taking too long to finish a job or a tenant not paying on time.
Assertive
There needs to be a fine balance between providing strong customer service and being assertive. The block manager needs to resolve problems, chase late payments and keep contractors working on time and within budget. Shrinking violets need not apply! A strong block manager is an assertive one.
Budgeting and financial skills
A strong block manager will need to have a good understanding of budgets. They need to make sure there are funds for emergency repairs.
Physically present
A good block manager is a visible one. They need to visit their blocks regularly. Tenants need to feel that they have a reference point should any issues arise. You as the owner need to feel confident that they are on the ball too.
Regulated
Check out if your block manager is RICS accredited. RICS lead the way in regulating the sector and ensure that its members uphold industry standards. They guarantee compliance by visiting the offices and checking the files of its members. Choosing a block manager that is a RICS member will give you peace of mind about their professionalism and abilities.
It’s a skill to stand out from the rest. If you’re looking for a block management company in London or Essex, Taylor offer a top-class service. We provide block management in London and beyond. Contact us to discuss our residential block management services. We have over 40 years of experience, so you’re in safe hands with Taylor.