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All the important charges you need to know from the start so that you don’t have any unexpected shocks that you may not have budgeted for.
Understanding charges that you’ll be responsible for is essential for keeping your house in order. Knowing about your credit score, how it’s used and how it can help you is also good to know. We’ve laid out some of the most important charges and bits of information to help you below, but you can always contact us at info@vita-housing.co.uk where one of our specialist team members can talk you through anything you’re unsure of.
For more information contact
service charges
What does a service charge cover?
Service charge is a cost that should cover all the services that are required for the smooth running of the block. Residents, leaseholders, shared owners, or freeholders may incur service charges for services including lift and door entry and gate maintenance, general repairs and upgrades, refuse management, cleaning, buildings insurances, estate management fees, caretaking, door entry phones and communal area services.
Service charges for homeowners
It’s important to note that service charge and ground rent are separate and will be charged at varying rates, dependant on where in the country you are living. The terms of your lease agreement will also have a bearing on how much you pay.
Service charges for tenants
This charge will depend on the type of building you are renting and is specifically related to communal services costs such as the doors, corridors, and refuse and also charges such as buildings insurance and in some cases, caretaker and maintenance personnel costs. In cases where this service charge is not included in your rent, it will be added on top.
We have found that by collecting fees on a regular basis, a reserve pot can be accrued so that the monies are there for unforeseen incidents and can be dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Your credit score
If you have a limited credit history, the chances are you will have a lower credit score. We’re here to help get credit scores up and to do it, we’ll share your rent history with Experian. The more information they have, the more accurate your financial profile will be. If for any reason you do not want this information shared, you will need to contact us at info@prosperity-vita.co.uk to opt out.
To discuss your credit score contact
vita payments
Making a Payment
Service charges usually run from April through to the following March and can be paid via direct debit or via the telephone with a credit or debit card.
You may decide that direct debit is a more suitable option for your rent or service charge payments to come out. Many people find this option more convenient and even if you are receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, it’s still possible to set up a direct debit – just contact us so we can set it up for you.
Home Safety
Ensuring your home is well maintained and addressing any concerns promptly.
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