The Challenge

Following recent appointment to manage the property, it was noted that the water tank in the top-floor flat required routine testing and servicing for legionella control. Access had been repeatedly delayed by the leaseholder, and once finally granted, suspected asbestos was identified in the tank housing. The property, built circa 1900, required careful management to comply with safety regulations and minimise disruption.

The Obstacles

• Delayed access from leaseholder prevented timely servicing

• Asbestos hazard complicated routine water tank maintenance

• Previous management had not addressed the issue, leaving the block at risk

• Need to comply with legal requirements while maintaining leaseholder relations

Our Approach

We implemented a structured and compliant process:

• Arranged asbestos sampling to confirm the hazard

• Liaised with contractors to ensure they could safely manage the asbestos and decommission the water tank

• Submitted a S20ZA dispensation to the Tribunal, justifying the urgency due to denied access and safety concerns

• Oversaw the safe removal of the asbestos and decommissioning of the water tank

• Communicated clearly with all leaseholders, explaining timelines, responsibilities, and legal compliance

• Addressed initial uncooperative leaseholder concerns and secured understanding and consent, reducing future access issues

The Outcome

The asbestos was safely removed, and the water tank was decommissioned in line with regulatory requirements. Leaseholders were kept informed throughout, understanding the necessity of the works. Trust was rebuilt with the previously uncooperative top-floor leaseholder, who acknowledged that fewer future access requests would be needed following this resolution. The property was returned to full compliance and safely operational.

What If We Hadn’t Stepped In?

Without intervention, routine water safety measures could have been neglected, leaving residents exposed to legionella risks. Delayed asbestos identification could have resulted in serious health hazards, regulatory breaches, and potential legal action, while continued access issues would have complicated future compliance work.

Ready to resolve safety and compliance challenges?

Water tanks, asbestos, or blocked access causing delays? We navigate complex safety issues lawfully and efficiently, protecting your property and residents.