Section 20

This section looks in detail at the consultation requirements of section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (as amended) under each of the four different Schedules of The Service Charges (Consultation Requirements) (England) Regulations 2003. It discusses some of the problems and pitfalls of complying with the Regulations, particularly related to:

  • observations
  • relevant periods
  • nominated contractors
  • emergencies and unforeseen extra works
  • long-term management agreements and
  • timing of service charge demands.

It considers the effect of case law on many of these issues and in particular the approach that tribunals should now take when considering dispensation from the consultation requirements.

This section is maintained by Jeff Platt, managing director of Section20 Ltd.