News
Using Data to Plan Long-Term Maintenance and Reserve Funds
For residential blocks, good maintenance is rarely about reacting fast; it is about planning well. Roofs age, lifts wear out, fire systems need renewal and external decorations need to be refreshed. When these costs are
Modernising Resident Communication
Good communication is the foundation of a well-run block of flats. When residents understand what is happening, why decisions are made and how to raise concerns, disputes reduce and trust grows. Yet in many buildings,
Learning from Complaints: Turning Negative Feedback into Better Block Management
For many Residential Management Company (RMC) directors, complaints can feel like an unwelcome distraction. They typically arrive during busy moments with an angry tone and often feeling unfair. But complaints can be re-framed. They
The Importance of Having a Seasonal Maintenance Plan for Blocks of Flats and Apartments
A well-run block works best when maintenance is planned around the seasons. Weather, daylight and temperature all affect how a building behaves and each season brings its own risks. For Residents’ Management Companies (RMCs), freeholders
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – November 2025
This month, our contributors unpack major works and service charges, from replacing unsafe cladding to the latest planning and consent changes affecting flats and apartments. In the News! Awaab’s Law — named after two-year-old
Commonhold: What Is It, What Could Change, and What Does It Mean for Your Block?
The long-standing leasehold system for UK flats and apartments is coming under increased scrutiny and the alternative model of Commonhold is now back in the spotlight. In this article we will explore what commonhold
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – October 2025
This month, our contributors explore maintenance, repairs and cleaning for blocks of flats and apartments - from caring for listed and historic buildings to setting aside funds for future works and making the most
A Practical Guide to Minimising Major Works Disruption in Your Block
By planning beyond the works themselves you can make a huge difference. Here’s how to manage disruption practically and sensitively, keeping your project on track while maintaining goodwill and trust within the block. Start
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – September 2025
This month, we’re turning the spotlight on valuations in property management. Our contributors explore the ongoing debate between desktop and onsite valuations, while also addressing the risks of underinsurance - and practical steps to
Repairing Listed and Historic Apartment Blocks: What RMC Directors Need to Know
Managing repairs in any residential block can be a complex task, but when that building is listed or holds historic status, the responsibilities for Residents’ Management Company (RMC) directors grow considerably. Older buildings carry legal
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – August 2025
This month, we're focusing on communal services in apartment blocks. Our contributors delve into various topics—from the evolving role of shared spaces in modern flats to sustainability efforts in leasehold developments. In the News!
Desktop vs Onsite Valuations: What You Need to Know Before Insuring Your Building
Reinstatement cost assessments are key to accurately insuring a building. They determine the full cost of completely rebuilding a property from the ground up, including site clearance, labour and materials. Inaccurate assessments can lead to
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – July 2025
This month, we explore what it means to live well in multi-occupancy buildings. Our contributors cover a range of topics—from maintaining clean and inviting communal spaces to supporting residents living with dementia in apartment blocks.
Green Communal Services: Sustainability in Leasehold Developments
Belinda Bagnall, Managing Director of Residentsline Insurance, explores how eco-friendly upgrades can benefit your building and how to make them happen. Sustainability is becoming a core consideration for leasehold developments across the UK. From rising
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – June 2025
This month, we shine a spotlight on the vital topics of health and safety and fire safety within the industry. Our contributors explore everything from building safety and compartmentation in flats and apartments to
Shared Spaces, Shared Responsibility: Keeping Common Areas Clean and Welcoming
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline Insurance explains how shared spacess do not look after themselves and so clear expectations, routines and a sense of shared responsibility are needed to ensure their upkeep and how Residents’ Management
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – May 2025
This Mental Health Awareness Month, our contributors delve into the topic of mental health and wellbeing in the industry. From recognising signs of domestic abuse as a block manager to RMCs fostering supportive communities,
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – April 2025
This month, we're diving into the world of software and technology. Our expert contributors explore the growing role of AI in block and property management, offering fresh perspectives on how innovation is reshaping the
Managing More Than Just Buildings: How RMCs Can Support Leaseholder Wellbeing
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline looks at the wider role that RMCs can play in creating happy, healthy homes, especially in an age where community, connection and wellbeing are more important than ever. When we think
Flat Living Magazine Roundup – March 2025
This month's issue explores the fascinating world of listed and historic buildings. Our incredible contributors provide insight into the unique challenges these structures face, as well as the complex legal frameworks that govern their
The Rise of Net-Zero Apartments: How Technology and Insurance Are Shaping the Future
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline Insurance explores the trend plus the role smart technology is playing and how insurance is evolving to meet the needs of sustainable living. Sustainability is more than a buzzword in today’s
Common Risks Facing Historic Buildings and How to Mitigate Them
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline Insurance explores the risks faced by historic buildings and their owners, as well as practical ways to mitigate them. Listed and historical buildings form a part of UK heritage and
Insurance Claims in Communal Areas and Why Private Roads Should be Insured
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline discusses the scenarios that could lead to a claim and outlining the newly available policy Residentsline has created to ensure that you and your team are covered. While anyone looking
Understanding Leasehold vs. Freehold in the UK: Why Flats and Apartments Are Affected
Belinda Bagnall from Residentsline Insurance, explains the difference between leasehold and freehold ownership, how the two styles of home ownership came about and the pros and cons of leasehold ownership in 2024. With so much