The amount required can vary according to the services provided; for example, where there is a lift in a block of flats, residents benefiting from that service would be expected to pay towards these costs.
You can read the Westcountry leaflet about Service Charges leaflet for more information or call and ask the Money Advice Team any questions.
Wherever practicable, Westcountry Housing will hold a residents’ meeting to consult on and agree budgets for service charges for the following twelve months.We will aim to give at least two weeks notice of the meeting and send you the proposed budget one week before the meeting.
Accounts for the preceding year, and the budget for the following year, are drawn up by the end of May each year. The accounting year runs from 1st April to 31st March and the charging year runs from 1st July to 30th June. Consultation on the budget estimate takes place during February or March each year. Any surpluses or deficits are carried forward, and taken into account in the service charge which is set for the following year. Any significant deficit will be recovered over a two year period. Generally, service charges are designed to cover costs for the year in question. These costs may be known; e.g. where we have a fixed price for planned work; or estimated, e.g. where the cost of fuel and power may vary depending on consumption.
For leaseholders, in accordance with their lease and where legislation requires, an annual audit of the accounts will be carried out by a qualified accountant. Copies of audited accounts will be made available.
Owners have the right to inspect accounts, receipts and other supporting evidence in connection with the collection and administration of service charge accounts. Where appropriate, Westcountry may make a reasonable charge for this service.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with any further queries: 0300 100 1012 or use the online contact us form.