Ask The Experts

You can write to your managing agent or landlord to request a summary of your service charge account which should be provided to you within one month of your request or within six months of the end of the accounting period whichever is the later; you also have the right to ask to see receipts, invoices etc for the last accounting year.

Your lease should set out how your service charge must be calculated.  It is usually a percentage or a set share of the cost of the repairs, maintenance and insurance of the building.

It could be risky to withhold payment because this may be a breach of your lease, however if you think certain charges are unreasonable, you should contact your managing agent or landlord to get an explanation of those charges. If you have evidence to challenge the charges, you can make an application to the First Tier Tribunal for a determination.