Choosing the right block management company for your block of flats is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation, maintenance, and overall success of the property. Appointing a competent management company like Wishtower, can enhance the quality of life for residents, ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and may even increase property values. Here we have laid out some essential tips to consider when selecting the right block management company for your block of flats.
1. Know Your Needs
Before you start looking for a block management company, it’s important to assess and understand the specific needs of your block of flats. You should consider factors such as the size of the property, the number of flats and residents, the type of services required (e.g. maintenance, financial management, legal compliance), and any block-specific challenges you might face. Having a clear understanding of your needs will help you identify the managing agent that can meet those requirements.
2. Check Credentials and Experience
Look for block management companies with the appropriate credentials and a proven track record. Check if the company is a member of professional bodies. Wishtower, for example, are members of both the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) which is now The Property Institute and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Memberships of these organisations indicates adherence to high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. Additionally, you should consider the company’s experience in managing similar blocks in your geographical area, giving them knowledge of local environmental factors which might affect your building, and also a base of local, reliable contractors to assist in maintaining your block.
3. Review Services Offered
Different block management companies offer varying levels of service. You should ensure that the managing agent you choose provides the specific services you need for your block. Common services include financial management, maintenance and repairs, legal compliance, resident communication, and emergency response. A comprehensive service package that addresses all aspects of block management will ensure that your property is well taken care of and at Wishtower, we can tailor a bespoke management service to meet the individual needs of your block.
4. Evaluate Communication and Customer Service
Effective communication and excellent customer service are vital for successful block management and are the core foundation of what Wishtower’s management service. We will work to establish the most useful and practical communication channels for you and your leaseholders whether this be via emails, phone calls, or even via our online portal which has been designed and created in-house by the Wishtower Systems team. We know that good customer service ensures issues are addressed promptly and that our clients feel valued and reassured that their block is in safe hands.
5. Request References and Testimonials
Wishtower can provide you with contact details of current clients who have joined our panel of referees and will be only too happy to discuss their experience of the Wishtower service with you. Speaking to other property owners or residents will provide you with a valuable insight into Wishtower’s performance, reliability, and professionalism. The positive feedback we receive, and recommendations passed to us via our current clients provide strong indicators that we are a reputable and successful block management company.
6. Consider Pricing and Transparency
Pricing is an important consideration, but it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor. Wishtower provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees. We ensure that our pricing structure aligns with the level of service we provide. It’s important to get value for your money, so be sure to consider the overall package rather than just the basic management fee. Remember – you get what you pay for!
7. Assess Technology and Innovation
As a modern and evolving block management company, at Wishtower we have taken control of the technology available to enhance the efficiency and delivery of our block management service. Tools such as our online portal, which has been built and designed in-house giving us scope to adapt to your specific needs. How about our nifty NFC property management signage which allows visiting contractors to not only sign in and out of your block at the swipe of a phone, but also provides them with all of your health and safety documentation direct in the palm of their hand. At Wishtower, we embrace innovation and are focussed on providing more streamlined and effective management services.
8. Meet the Team
The Wishtower management team will be only too happy to come and meet you at your block to discuss your requirements in person. This provides an opportunity for you to assess our expertise, professionalism, and approachability and also lets us have a first-hand look at your building which allows us to give you a block-specific management proposal. From this face-to-face meeting, we aim to provide a better sense of how the Wishtower team will understand and meet your specific needs. We currently have offices in Eastbourne, Brighton and Croydon and these seem to be our busiest areas.
9. Review Contract Terms
Why not contact Wishtower for a copy of our standard management contract terms and conditions. We have worked hard to ensure our contract is fair and transparent with no hidden nasties. None of our contract conditions are set in stone and we will be happy to discuss any specific requirements with you so that you feel totally comfortable with the service you are signing up to.
10. Look for a Local Presence
With a strong local presence, Wishtower is better positioned to understand the unique needs and challenges of your area. We have long-standing and established relationships with local contractors and service providers, which enhances the efficiency of our management service and offers more tailored and cost-effective maintenance solutions to your block.
Conclusion
Choosing the right block management company for your block of flats requires careful consideration of your specific needs, the company’s credentials and experience. As well as the services offered, and their approach to communication and customer service. Wishtower know that we can offer a management service that not only enhances the quality of life for residents of your block, but also helps maintain and increase the value of your home or investment. Why not get in touch to find out more.
Get in Touch
If you would like to enquire about working with our team at Wishtoer then please get in touch.
Brighton 01273 658030
Eastbounre 01323 312121
Croydon 0203 150 2050
