What Is Block Management?
Block management is the professional administration of shared buildings, covering everything from service charges and building maintenance to compliance and leaseholder communication. Done well, it protects your property's value and makes communal living straightforward.
What Does a Block Do?
A block management company is appointed to take charge of the shared areas and collective responsibilities within a multi-unit building. Rather than individual leaseholders or volunteer directors handling maintenance requests, insurance renewals, and regulatory obligations, a professional managing agent coordinates every aspect of the building's operation on their behalf.
The scope of work is broad. Block management companies collect service charges and manage the building's budget, arrange and oversee maintenance programmes, ensure the property meets fire safety, electrical, and health and safety standards, procure competitive block insurance, and produce transparent year-end service charge accounts. They also handle leaseholder queries, facilitate annual general meetings, and manage the Section 20 consultation process when major works are required.
The best block management companies in the UK go beyond basic administration. They add value through proactive maintenance planning that reduces long-term costs, competitive contractor procurement that delivers better quality at lower prices, and clear, regular communication that keeps every stakeholder informed and confident in how the building is being managed.
Financial Management
Budget setting, service charge collection, arrears management, reserve fund planning, and certified annual accounts prepared to ARMA standards.
Building Upkeep
Planned preventative maintenance, reactive maintenance, communal cleaning, grounds maintenance, and a 24/7 emergency repairs helpline for urgent issues.
Compliance
Fire risk assessments, electrical testing, asbestos surveys, legionella checks, lift inspections, and full regulatory compliance tracking.
How Does Block Management Work?
Block management follows a structured process designed to keep your building safe, well-maintained, and financially healthy. When you appoint a managing agent, they become the single point of coordination for every aspect of the building's operation. Here is how the process typically works, step by step.
Building Assessment and Onboarding
The managing agent carries out a thorough inspection of the property, reviews existing leases and management documentation, and identifies any immediate compliance gaps or maintenance priorities. This assessment forms the foundation of a tailored management plan for the building.
Budget Setting and Service Charge Demands
A detailed annual budget is prepared, covering all anticipated expenditure including maintenance, insurance, compliance, communal services, and a contribution to the reserve fund. Service charge demands are issued to leaseholders, usually on a quarterly or half-yearly basis.
Ongoing Maintenance and Compliance
The managing agent implements a planned preventative maintenance schedule, responds to reactive maintenance requests, arranges statutory inspections and risk assessments, and ensures all communal areas are kept clean and in good order. A compliance calendar tracks every legal obligation.
Reporting and Communication
Regular management reports are provided to freeholders and directors, covering financial performance, maintenance activity, compliance status, and any issues requiring attention. Annual service charge accounts are prepared and certified by independent accountants for full transparency.
At Block, our onboarding process is designed to cause minimal disruption. Whether you are a new development or switching from another managing agent, we handle the transition smoothly so there is no gap in service for residents.
What Is Included in Block Management?
A comprehensive block management service should cover every aspect of running a shared building. When you appoint Block, the following block management services are included as standard. We tailor the scope of work to match the specific requirements of each development, so you only pay for what your building genuinely needs.
Service Charge Administration
Annual budget preparation, demand collection, arrears management, reserve fund planning, and year-end accounts certified by independent accountants.
Building Maintenance
Planned preventative maintenance programmes, reactive repairs, 24/7 emergency helpline, and management of all communal cleaning and grounds maintenance.
Health and Safety Compliance
Fire risk assessments, electrical testing, emergency lighting checks, legionella risk assessments, asbestos management, and full compliance tracking.
Insurance Arrangement
Competitive block insurance sourced through our broker network, with full claims management and regular cover reviews to ensure adequate protection.
Section 20 Consultations
Complete management of the statutory consultation process for qualifying works exceeding 250 pounds per leaseholder and long-term qualifying agreements.
Leaseholder Communication
Dedicated property manager, regular building updates, AGM facilitation, resident portals, and a clear complaints procedure handled promptly and fairly.
For a detailed breakdown of our financial services, visit our service charge management page. To learn more about how we keep your building in excellent condition, see our building maintenance page.
How Much Does Block Management Cost?
Block management fees vary depending on several factors, including the number of units in the building, the range of services required, the condition of the property, and the complexity of the lease arrangements. Most block management companies charge on a per-unit, per-annum basis, with typical fees in the UK ranging from around 150 to 500 pounds per unit per year.
Smaller blocks with fewer than ten units often attract a slightly higher per-unit fee because the fixed administrative costs are spread across fewer leaseholders. Larger developments may benefit from economies of scale that reduce the per-unit cost. Additional services such as major works project management, out-of-hours emergency repairs cover, or specialist compliance consulting may incur supplementary charges.
At Block, we believe in complete pricing transparency. We provide a fully itemised fee proposal before you commit, with no hidden charges, undisclosed commissions, or surprise extras. Our management fee is clearly shown within the service charge budget, and we are always happy to explain how it has been calculated.
Free, No-Obligation Quotation
Contact us on 0161 371 7190 or info@blockmanagementcompany.com for a tailored quote based on your building's specific requirements. We will visit the property, review the lease, and provide a detailed proposal within five working days.
Why Choose Block?
Choosing a block management company is one of the most important decisions you will make for your building. The right managing agent protects your investment, reduces costs over time, and ensures residents enjoy a well-maintained home. Here is why clients across the UK trust us with their buildings.
Industry Accredited
We operate to the highest professional standards, with memberships of recognised industry bodies including ARMA and RICS, and a commitment to ongoing training and development for every member of our team.
Transparent Finances
No hidden commissions, no inflated contractor costs. Every pound is accounted for in clear, itemised service charge accounts that leaseholders can review at any time. We disclose all income streams without exception.
Dedicated Managers
Every building is assigned a named property management professional who knows the development inside out. No call centres, no anonymous helpdesks. Your manager is your single point of contact for all building matters.
Rapid Response
Our 24/7 emergency repairs helpline ensures urgent issues are dealt with promptly, day or night. For routine enquiries, we aim to respond within one working day so residents are never left waiting.
Proven Track Record
Rated 4.9 out of 5 across 127 reviews, we have built our reputation on delivering reliable, high-quality block management services to buildings of all sizes across the UK.
UK-Wide Coverage
From Manchester to London, Leeds to Bristol, we provide residential block management and commercial block management services with dedicated local knowledge across England, Wales, and Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions About Block Management
What is a block management company?
A block management company is a professional firm appointed to handle the day-to-day administration of a block of flats or multi-unit development. Their responsibilities include collecting service charges, arranging building maintenance and insurance, ensuring compliance with fire safety and health and safety regulations, producing annual accounts, and acting as the central point of contact between freeholders, leaseholders, and contractors. A competent block management company brings structure, accountability, and specialist expertise to the running of shared buildings.
How do block management companies make money?
Block management companies earn revenue primarily through management fees charged on a per-unit, per-annum basis. These fees are typically included within the service charge budget paid by leaseholders. Some managing agents also receive commissions on insurance placements or mark up contractor invoices. At Block, we operate with complete financial transparency and disclose all income streams. We do not take hidden commissions, and every cost is fully itemised in our service charge accounts so leaseholders always know where their money goes.
What is the difference between a block manager and a property manager?
A block manager specialises in managing the communal areas, shared services, and collective obligations of a multi-unit building such as a block of flats. Their work centres on service charge administration, communal maintenance, regulatory compliance, and multi-party communication. A property manager, on the other hand, typically manages individual rental properties for landlords, handling tenant finding, rent collection, and tenancy matters. While there is some overlap in skillset, block management demands specific knowledge of leasehold law, Section 20 consultations, and the rights of leaseholders and freeholders.
How much does a block manager earn?
Block manager salaries in the UK vary depending on experience, qualifications, and location. A junior block manager or property coordinator typically earns between 22,000 and 30,000 pounds per year. A mid-level block manager with several years of experience and professional qualifications such as IRPM membership can expect between 30,000 and 42,000 pounds. Senior block managers and regional directors may earn upwards of 50,000 pounds, particularly in London and the South East. Qualifications from bodies like IRPM and RICS can significantly increase earning potential.
Can I refuse to pay management fees?
In most cases, leaseholders cannot simply refuse to pay management fees. The obligation to contribute to service charges, which include the managing agent fee, is usually written into the terms of your lease. If you withhold payment, the freeholder or management company may take legal action to recover the debt. However, if you believe the fees are unreasonable or the services provided are inadequate, you have the right to challenge them at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). It is advisable to seek legal advice before withholding any payment and to document your concerns in writing.
Who regulates block management companies?
Block management companies in the UK are not required by law to hold a specific licence, but the industry is moving towards greater regulation. Many reputable firms voluntarily belong to professional bodies such as the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA), the Institute of Residential Property Management (IRPM), or the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). These bodies enforce codes of practice and provide complaints handling procedures. The government has also proposed the introduction of a statutory regulator for property agents through the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, which is expected to raise standards across the sector.
Looking for a Block You Can Trust?
Whether you need a managing agent for a new development, want to switch from your current provider, or are exploring Right to Manage, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation conversation about your building.
info@blockmanagementcompany.com · 274 Manchester Rd, Audenshaw, Manchester M34 5GL