Laurel Manor Right to Manage Company Ltd.
Laurel Manor Freehold Ltd.
Chairman's Report at 2024 AGM
Dear Leaseholder,
The Board continues to meet regularly to:* progress the maintenance of the Estate, and
* look for improvements to keep the estate an attractive place to live.
We have taken action on the two most troublesome issues: parking and rubbish dumping. Thanks to Alister Debono's efforts the dumping of rubbish has diminished but it is not resolved as tenants of non-resident leaseholders often dump rubbish on a change of tenancy, but that is not the only cause. Any rubbish not specified by the Council as domestic waste is "dumped rubbish".
It is not always residents. If unscrupulous neighbours or tradesmen see a pile of rubbish, they will often add to it. The council will not clear this waste and we all, as leaseholders, end up paying for its removal. Where we can identify the culprits we will send the rubbish removal bill, plus a handling fee, to the leaseholder.
You may be aware that we have introduced a parking permit scheme which has had some success in reducing unauthorised parking on the estate. For non-resident leaseholders, details of the scheme should have been sent to you with the AGM papers. Briefly, each flat has one parking permit, allowing a visitor, tradesperson or resident to park in a visitor's space on the estate.
As foreshadowed last year, we have also been trying to improve the grounds and the recent improved appearance is largely thanks to the voluntary efforts of Celina Kerr. Ivy is becoming a big issue, and we are looking at options to destroy the roots.
Some other points worth noting:
* There have been some specific concerns with some flats. We have, and continue to, act against leaseholders of flats where there is poor or even dangerous maintenance which is the responsibility of the leaseholder. We have insisted on the replacement of some windows to ensure the overall appearance of the estate looks attractive and cared for.
* As a reminder to Leaseholders, no alterations either internal or external are allowed. without permission from the Laurel Manor board. All requests to be made to Harrow.
* A new bench has been installed to replace the old one which was collapsing
* A much requested handrail has been installed on the steps up to Block B entrance for safety.
* Last year some repair was carried out to the potholes in the drive, we knew at the time that this was unlikely to be a permanent solution, and it is disappointing that its lifespan has been short. However, in view of the costs we are facing with the fabric, we feel that that the cost of the true solution (resurface the drive) is currently unjustifiable, and we will not repair the drive this year.
* Due to the brickwork repairs last year there was some disruption to the satellite dishes serving some flats. The satellite dishes have now been reinstated, however that has uncovered the fact that satellites are becoming redundant. We believe that the efforts being made to install fibre in the area will deliver the potential for high speed internet connections direct into the flats and we will plan to remove the satellites when they become obsolete rather than replace them.
* Please ensure that fire door closing mechanisms are not tampered with or fire doors propped open. The fire doors are the residents principal defence against fire spreading rapidly. Leaving them open leaves all the flats, and their residents on that landing exposed to a much greater chance of damage or injury in the event of a fire.
Estate rules are available on the Laurel Manor website Laurel Manor- Freehold and Lease. These apply equally to leaseholders and their tenants and form part of the legal requirements of your lease. Where a flat is sublet these rules must be provided to your tenant and a copy of your lease conditions must be included in your tenancy agreement.
I ask that leaseholders, particularly those who are residents, to seriously consider joining the Board of Directors to help guide the management of the estate. However, even if you don't join the board you are welcome to attend and contribute at any board meeting.
My thanks to all who help in the management of the estate (Ted, James, Celina, Andy; aided by Alistair, Emad, Pauline and Vladimir); and to Mark and all at Harrow Management.
I hope we will see you at the AGM,
Chris Ball - Chair