What to expect from a professional freehold property management company

If you own the freehold of a residential building, you’re not just a titleholder. You’re a steward of a long-term asset. Managing that asset effectively requires more than occasional oversight. It demands a proactive, transparent, and knowledgeable partner. That’s where a professional freehold property management company comes in.

But what exactly should you expect from one?

What does a freehold property management company actually do?

A freehold property management company acts on behalf of the freeholder to oversee the building’s financial, legal, and operational responsibilities. This includes collecting ground rent, managing service charges, ensuring compliance with lease terms, and maintaining the building’s long-term value.

At Sebright, we specialise in ground rent collection and lease extensions, but our role goes far beyond administration. We provide strategic oversight, ensure health and safety compliance, and offer expert advice on everything from insurance coordination to major works planning. We also support long-range asset planning, helping freeholders anticipate future costs and maintain financial resilience.

How do I know if my current freehold property management company is overcharging me?

This is one of the most common concerns we hear. Overcharging often hides in plain sight: vague invoices, inflated contractor fees, or service charges that don’t reflect the building’s actual needs.

Here are a few red flags to watch for:

• You receive lump-sum invoices with no itemised breakdown.

• Contractor costs seem high but haven’t been benchmarked.

• There’s little to no communication about how your service charge is being spent.

• You’ve never been offered a service charge expenditure review.

A reputable company will not only provide full transparency but also proactively seek better value. At Sebright, we offer a free service charge analysis to help freeholders understand where their money is going and whether it could be working harder.

Can a freehold property management company help me extend my lease?

Yes. Lease extensions are a key part of long-term asset management, and a good management company will guide both freeholders and leaseholders through the process. This includes coordinating with solicitors and valuers, ensuring compliance with the Leasehold Reform Act, and maintaining clear communication throughout.

Sebright has extensive experience supporting lease extensions. We understand the legal and financial nuances, and we work to ensure the process is smooth, fair, and beneficial for all parties involved. Our team also helps freeholders assess the long-term impact of lease extensions on asset value and service charge recovery.

Why choose a company like Sebright?

Not all management companies are created equal. At Sebright, we combine regulatory expertise with a hands-on, relationship-driven approach. We’re full members of The Property Institute (TPI) and The Property Ombudsman Scheme, and we invest in continuous professional development to stay ahead of industry changes.

We also provide:

• Regular site inspections and contractor supervision

• 10-year asset management plans tailored to your building

• Transparent client and leaseholder portals

• Free site surveys and service charge reviews

Our aim is simple: to deliver clarity, compliance, and confidence at every stage of the management process.

Safeguarding your investment for the long term

Choosing a freehold property management company isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about finding a partner who understands your responsibilities, protects your investment, and communicates with precision. Whether you’re managing a single block or a portfolio, the right company will make your role as a freeholder easier, more efficient, and more rewarding.

Sebright offers a free site survey and service charge analysis to help you evaluate your current setup and identify opportunities for improvement. We provide clear reporting and practical guidance to help freeholders make confident decisions.

Get in touch

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FAQs

How does a freehold property management company plan for major works?

By preparing long-term asset management plans, setting clear timelines, and ensuring service charges are allocated fairly to cover future costs.

What support can a freehold manager provide during lease extensions?

They coordinate with solicitors and valuers, ensure compliance with legislation, and keep communication clear between freeholders and leaseholders.

How can a freehold manager improve transparency for freeholders?

Through itemised service charge statements, expenditure reviews, and benchmarking contractor costs, freeholders gain a clear view of how funds are being used.