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Finance and Service Charges
The Property Insurance Maze: What You Actually Need (and What You’re Double-Paying For)
If you own a property—whether it’s a shiny new build, a buy-to-let investment, or just your own home—the paperwork can be overwhelming. You likely have a stack of policy documents that all sound vaguely similar. Do you really need boiler cover if you have buildings insurance? Does your new build warranty replace standard insurance? And whose job is it to insure the carpets? Here is a breakdown of the five main types of property protection, what they actually cover, and where
Stewart Tan
Dec 16, 20253 min read
Whose Wall Is It Anyway? A Leaseholder's Guide to Your Demise and the Service Charge
Every lease is different. It’s the most important, and sometimes most frustrating, principle of property ownership in England. Understanding what is your responsibility versus what is communal can save you a world of confusion, disputes, and unexpected costs down the line. The key to unlocking this puzzle lies in two fundamental concepts: the demised premises and the service charge . In simple terms, it's the difference between "what's yours" and "what's ours." The "Demised
Stewart Tan
Oct 14, 20254 min read
Decoding Your Service Charge: Why Costs for Leaseholders Are on the Rise
For millions of leaseholders across the country, the arrival of the annual service charge demand can be a moment of genuine anxiety. Often accompanied by a significant increase from the previous year, this bill can feel opaque and overwhelming. You know you have to pay it, but what exactly are you paying for? While routine costs are expected, two major factors have caused service charges to spiral in recent years: enhanced fire safety regulations and soaring buildings insur
Stewart Tan
Oct 10, 20255 min read
Why are energy standing charges so high since the Russian invasion of Ukraine?
The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 resulted in a huge spike in energy prices which has settled down in recent years. Unfortunately, while unit prices have fallen, standing charges are at levels far higher than pre 2022. Energy UK, the trade association for the energy industry, put out a report explaining what has caused the rise in standing charges. Standing Charges Explained: What Are They and Why Is Everyone Talking About Them? If you've ever looked closely at your e
Stewart Tan
Sep 23, 20254 min read
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