Self-Managing Your Block Without a Managing Agent

Managing agent fees add up, and not every block feels it gets value for them. Self-management — where residents run the building themselves — can save money and put residents back in control. But it is not free; it costs time, organisation and goodwill.

What a managing agent actually does

• Collects service charges and chases arrears.
• Arranges insurance, maintenance and repairs.
• Keeps accounts and produces year-end statements.
• Handles contractor relationships and compliance.
• Communicates with leaseholders.

Can you do it yourselves?

For smaller blocks with engaged residents, absolutely. The key is splitting the work sensibly and being honest about the time involved. Many self-managed blocks combine volunteer directors with a bookkeeper or accountant for the financial side.

Staying organised is everything

The blocks that self-manage successfully are the ones that stay organised. Everyone knows where the documents are, decisions are recorded, and communication does not depend on one person remembering to forward an email. The ones that struggle are usually drowning in WhatsApp messages and lost paperwork.

The toolkit for self-management

1. 1A shared place for announcements every resident receives.
2. 2A recorded way to make decisions together.
3. 3A document library for insurance, accounts and certificates.
4. 4A simple way to turn contractor and agent emails into updates.