If you're a leaseholder, freeholder, or director of a Residents’ Management Company (RMC), the importance of good block management can’t be overstated. Your managing agent is responsible for maintaining the building, ensuring health and safety compliance, and keeping service charges in check. But not all block management companies are created equal.
Poor management can lead to rising costs, unaddressed maintenance issues, and unnecessary stress. So how do you know when it’s time to make a change?
Here are five key signs it’s time to switch block management — and what to look for in a better alternative.
One of the clearest indicators of bad block management is recurring maintenance problems. From broken communal lights and lift breakdowns to overgrown gardens or delayed repairs, these issues not only frustrate residents but can also decrease property value.
Good block management companies should have robust systems in place for handling repairs and maintenance. That includes clear response times, vetted contractors, and regular site inspections. If you’re constantly chasing your managing agent or seeing the same problems arise, that’s a red flag.
What to look for instead:
A proactive block manager who carries out scheduled site visits, uses modern property management software, and keeps a log of reported issues and their resolution timeline.
Service charges should be clear, justified, and used effectively. If you're noticing rising costs with little explanation — or struggling to get a straight answer when asking for a budget breakdown — it might be time to move on.
A reliable block management company should provide clear annual budgets, regular financial updates, and access to year-end accounts. If you're not receiving this, or worse, if funds appear mismanaged, it's a serious issue.
Questions to ask yourself:
What to look for instead:
A managing agent who offers online portals for real-time financial visibility, clear invoicing, and independent accounting practices.
Communication is at the heart of effective block management. You shouldn’t have to wait days (or weeks!) for a reply to a simple query. Whether it’s responding to emails, answering the phone, or providing updates on ongoing issues, a good agent should be easy to reach and responsive.
Signs your current agent isn’t delivering:
Poor communication often reflects a deeper lack of organisation and care — and that can have consequences for safety, compliance, and resident satisfaction.
What to look for instead:
A dedicated point of contact, service-level agreements for response times, and a culture of proactive communication with residents and directors.
From fire risk assessments and asbestos reports to Section 20 consultations, health and safety compliance is a legal obligation. A good block management company will not only ensure these are in place but will also flag upcoming deadlines and legal responsibilities well in advance.
If you’re unsure whether your block is compliant, that’s a warning sign. Your agent should be guiding you through legislation and helping your block avoid costly fines or litigation.
Common compliance failures include:
What to look for instead:
A company that takes compliance seriously, provides a calendar of mandatory checks, and works with qualified professionals to keep you on the right side of the law.
Ultimately, managing a residential block is about providing a safe, well-maintained and positive living environment. If residents are frequently voicing concerns about cleanliness, maintenance, or service charge levels, it’s a sign that your current block management company is falling short.
You might notice:
When frustration builds among residents, it can create a toxic atmosphere in your building — especially for directors who volunteer their time to manage the property. A good block manager should make life easier, not harder.
What to look for instead:
A firm that values resident feedback, offers regular surveys, and is focused on long-term resident satisfaction — not just ticking boxes.
Sometimes it’s not about poor performance — it’s just that your block has evolved. Maybe it’s grown in size, or the needs of residents have changed. Some agents are better suited to smaller buildings, while others thrive with more complex portfolios.
If your current managing agent lacks the systems, expertise, or capacity to handle your block’s growth, it could be time to switch to a more experienced firm.
Once you’ve recognised the signs, making the switch doesn’t have to be difficult. Here’s a quick guide:
Switching block management providers might seem daunting, but if you’re experiencing any of the signs above, it’s worth exploring your options. Your building is a valuable asset, and it deserves to be managed with care, transparency, and professionalism.
At Cube Block Management, we specialise in proactive, transparent, and resident-focused property management across London and Greater London. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to make a change, we’d be happy to offer a free health check of your current block management setup — no strings attached.
Need help or have questions?
Contact us today for expert advice on switching block management — and see how we can make life easier for you and your residents.
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