Pre-Handover Investigation and Existing Defects

Can you confirm that leaseholders will not be charged for remedial works arising from defects or issues clearly caused by First Port or its contractors?

At this stage, we cannot provide a definitive confirmation. However, where defects or issues are clearly attributable to First Port or their contractors, we would explore the option of pursuing a legal claim against them. Any such action would be assessed on its merits, including evidence, prospects of success, and cost implications.

Will the scope and findings of the pre-handover building investigation carried out by HAUS be shared with leaseholders to provide transparency around any inherited defects?

HAUS is not undertaking an in-depth building investigation that would require third-party consultants. Carrying out such a detailed survey would involve additional costs, which would need to be discussed and agreed separately.

However, any material issues identified through the standard pre-handover review will be highlighted, and we will be transparent with leaseholders about any known defects that may be inherited as part of the handover.

On-Site Staff Employment Model (Third-Party HR)

Under the third-party HR employment model, what is the definitive escalation route for leaseholders raising operational complaints (for example, reception staff availability)?

Operational issues or complaints, including matters such as reception staff availability, should be raised directly with your HAUS property manager, who will manage the escalation and liaise with the third-party HR provider and on-site staff as required.

If future RTM directors decide to discontinue the third-party HR arrangement, what would the process and likely costs of transitioning to a different employment model be?

If future RTM directors decide to discontinue the third-party HR arrangement, there would be no cost to transition. The on-site staff would transfer to the new employment arrangement under TUPE regulations, ensuring continuity of employment and terms.

Is the use of a third-party HR company to employ on-site residential staff considered standard or best practice within the property management industry?

Yes. The use of a third-party HR company to employ on-site residential staff is common practice among RTM companies and freeholders. One of the key reasons is that it avoids the need to pay VAT on staff salaries, making it a more cost-effective and efficient arrangement while still ensuring appropriate employment, HR, and welfare support for staff.

Parking and Basement Maintenance

How will existing basement seepage issues be addressed during the handover to ensure the RTM is not inheriting long-term structural water damage?

Existing basement seepage issues will be investigated by the property manager as part of the handover process, and a review will be undertaken to assess the nature and extent of the issue and determine any appropriate next steps.

What enforcement measures will be implemented to address ongoing parking misuse, such as residents parking multiple vehicles with a single permit?

At this stage, we cannot commit to specific enforcement measures. However, the lease will be reviewed to confirm the parking provisions and, as is the case with other sites we manage, options will be assessed to introduce practical controls aimed at reducing parking misuse, including situations where multiple vehicles are parked under a single permit.

Which parking management provider will take over once Haus assumes control, and will Haus offer direct parking enforcement?

We are unable to confirm the parking management provider at this stage. However, HAUS works with a number of established parking enforcement firms, and an appropriate arrangement will be considered and appointed following the handover.

Will residents be required to pre-register their vehicles to ensure continuity of parking enforcement and avoid any gaps during the transition?

Residents will not be required to pre-register their vehicles during the transition. The current parking provider will remain in place while enforcement options are reviewed, ensuring continuity and avoiding any gaps in parking control.

Security and Site Safety

Given the recent security incidents over the Christmas period, what immediate measures will be taken to improve safety in the common areas?

At this stage, we are not able to confirm immediate measures. Any actions will be informed by an initial assessment of the site, an understanding of residents’ concerns, and a review of the history of security issues. Where appropriate, advice may also be sought from third-party security consultants before determining the most suitable next steps.

Would the directors consider employing private security on a short-term basis during the management transition to provide an immediate deterrent?

Yes — nothing is off the table at this stage. The option of employing private security on a short-term basis will be considered as part of the overall security review, subject to an assessment of costs and value for money.

Once the handover is complete, when and how will longer-term security solutions—such as the installation of gates recommended in the DoCo report—be reviewed and progressed?

Security is a high priority and will be placed near the top of the post-handover agenda. Once the handover is complete, longer-term security options — including those recommended in the DoCo report, such as the installation of gates — will be reviewed in detail. All viable options will be considered and, where it is in the interests of leaseholders and supported by residents, appropriate actions will be progressed.