Self-management does not have to mean doing everything yourselves. Leaseholder-led buildings choose a mix of in-house work and paid help, and the right mix depends on the time, skills and appetite of the directors.
The four common models
- Fully self-managed. Directors handle everything: contractors, accounts, filings, meetings and enquiries. This costs the least in fees and the most in time.
- Self-managed with professional back-office support. Directors run the building and the contractors. An accountant or company secretary deals with the books, the year-end accounts and the Companies House filings.
- Agent for part of the service. An agent is kept for selected tasks, such as collecting service charge, arranging insurance or handling major works, while the directors take decisions and manage the rest.
- Full management. An agent or management service runs the day-to-day work, and the directors keep every significant decision.
What each asks of directors
| Model | Directors’ time | Cost | Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fully self-managed | High | Lowest fees | Highest |
| With back-office support | Medium | Moderate | High |
| Agent for part of the service | Lower | Moderate | High on decisions |
| Full management | Lowest | Highest fees | Decisions only |
What to think about
- Who will do the work? Most boards depend on two or three engaged people. If they leave, the building must still run.
- Which tasks do you dislike or lack skills for? Accounts, filings and statutory notices are common candidates for paid help.
- How much risk is acceptable? Safety, insurance and money handling are not areas to improvise.
- How often will you review it? A model that suits year one may not suit year five.
Whichever you choose
- Keep your own records: lease, insurance, safety certificates, accounts and minutes.
- Agree in writing who is responsible for what.
- Set a budget for paid help, and review it each year.
- Use a compliance calendar so nothing depends on memory.
Start where you are. Many buildings begin with back-office support and take on more once the directors are confident. It is much easier to add work than to hand a failing system back to someone else.
Next steps
- List every task the building needs done in a year.
- Mark which ones the directors will take on.
- Ask for quotes for the rest.
- Review the choice after the first year.
This guide is general information, not advice on your circumstances. Leasehold law is detailed and changes: check the current position and take advice before acting.