Protecting Buildings Through Forward Planning
Preventative maintenance is one of the most effective ways to protect residential properties and avoid costly reactive repairs.
Our maintenance strategy focuses on long-term planning to help preserve both the condition and value of the building.
Effective property management includes three core areas:
Routine day-to-day maintenance – including:
Cleaning, gardening and general communal services.
Scheduled & cyclical maintenance – including :
Drain clearance, fire alarm testing, roof inspections and planned servicing.
Planned major works – including:
External decorations, resurfacing, roofing projects and long-term structural maintenance.
The long-awaited 4th edition of the Service Charge Residential Management Code has been published by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This marks the first major update in a decade, setting a refreshed benchmark for transparency, professionalism and consistency across the sector.
The updated code strengthens expectations around fairness, accountability and communication, while aligning with key legislative changes including the Building Safety Act 2022.
When we take over management of a property, our surveying and property management teams work closely with the client to assess maintenance priorities and future building requirements.
We then create a tailored five-year maintenance programme designed to:
- Prioritise essential works
- Improve budgeting accuracy
- Reduce unexpected costs
- Ensure legal compliance
- Protect long-term property value
This proactive approach also helps identify any future Section 20 consultation requirements and major works planning at an early stage.
Regular inspections form an important part of our proactive management approach.
At the start of each management appointment, we agree a suitable inspection schedule based on the building’s size and requirements.
These visits help us:
- Identify issues early
- Monitor maintenance standards
- Prioritise repairs
- Assess contractor performance
- Keep clients informed
Where appropriate, committee members and directors are welcome to attend inspections alongside the Property Manager.
Large-scale maintenance projects require careful planning and clear communication.
Austin Rees assists clients with:
- Major works planning
- Contractor tendering
- Project coordination
- Resident communication
- Section 20 consultation procedures
Importantly, we do not charge additional fees for administering statutory Section 20 consultation procedures.
Our proactive approach helps projects run more smoothly while minimising disruption for residents.
This section is being updated to show how we are able to support clients with the latest fire and safety regulations