Welcome to the September edition of Habitare’s monthly property management newsletter — your trusted source for block management updates, building safety news, and practical maintenance tips for residents and directors across the UK.
As autumn arrives, we focus on preparing your block for cooler months ahead. This month’s issue covers lighting safety, Building Safety Act guidance, new ways to contact our team, and important health and safety reminders to help you manage your property confidently.
Welcome to the September Newsletter
Thank you to everyone who shared feedback on our first e-newsletter — we’re delighted to hear it’s been helpful. With summer behind us, our attention turns to ensuring communal areas, roofs, windows, and heating systems are ready for autumn and winter.
Inside this edition, you’ll find:
• Expert property maintenance tips
• The latest Building Safety Act update
• A look at how Habitare is improving communication for residents and directors
Property Management Tip of the Month: Bright Ideas for Communal Lighting
Good communal lighting is essential for safety, security, and comfort in any residential block.
Here’s how to help keep your shared areas well-lit and cost-efficient:
• Report outages promptly — if corridor, stairwell, or car park lights fail, let our team know so we can replace them quickly.
• Choose energy-efficient lighting — Habitare recommends LED bulbs and motion sensors to reduce energy bills and lower service charge costs.
• Prioritise safety — if a stairwell or entrance light goes out suddenly, take extra care until it’s fixed.
Small actions like these help keep shared spaces safe and sustainable all year round.
Legal Watch: The Building Safety Act in Practice
The Building Safety Act continues to reshape how residential buildings are managed across the UK.
Here’s what leaseholders, freeholders, and directors should know:
• Accountable persons (often freeholders or management companies) must actively manage building safety risks.
• Resident engagement is now a legal duty — communication about fire and structural safety must be transparent and ongoing.
• Higher-risk buildings face tighter oversight from the Building Safety Regulator.
Habitare ensures all managed blocks remain compliant with these evolving regulations. For detailed government guidance, visit GOV.UK: Building Safety Act.
Behind the Scenes: WhatsApp Communication Now Live
We’re making it easier than ever to reach us!
You can now message Habitare directly via WhatsApp using our main number: 01245 330 291.
Whether you’re reporting an issue, following up on repairs, or sharing feedback, our support team is on hand for a faster, more flexible response.
This is part of our ongoing commitment to modern, accessible block management communication.
Save our number and drop us a message today!
“Thanks to Louise in the support department for calling me when I missed a payment — she saved me from a fine! I’m grateful for the personal service. The team is a credit to their company.” – Nadeem
Updates & Offers: Referral Bonus Still Live – Earn up to £1,000!
Know another leaseholder or block director who could benefit from Habitare’s expert block management services? Refer them to Habitare and earn up to £1,000 for a successful introduction.
Site Conduct Reminder: Respect for Contractors Onsite
Please remember:
• Treat contractors with courtesy and respect.
• Report any concerns about workmanship directly to Habitare.
• Abuse or harassment of contractors will not be tolerated.
• Professional cooperation helps ensure repairs are completed safely, quickly, and cost-effectively — protecting both your property and service charge budgets.
Habitare Learning Hub – Building Safety Act Snapshots
We’ve launched a new Learning Hub featuring 10 Building Safety Act fact sheets.
These simplify complex regulations into practical insights for leaseholders, resident directors, and property managers.
Key topics include:
• Legal duties under the Act
• Safety case reporting explained
• Resident engagement responsibilities
• Step-by-step compliance actions
These downloadable guides help you stay informed, compliant, and confident about your building’s safety obligations.
Ask Habitare: Building Insurance Explained
Q: Who’s responsible for pest control in my block?
Communal areas are managed by Habitare. Inside flats, pest control is usually the leaseholder’s responsibility. Please report communal infestations so we can arrange treatment.
Q: What should I do if there’s a leak in my flat?
If it’s from your own plumbing, arrange a repair. If it’s from a communal system or another flat, contact us immediately. Acting quickly limits damage and disruption.
Got a question? Email us at support@habitare.uk and we may feature it in next month’s newsletter.
Seasonal Tip: Window & Door Checks
Before winter, inspect all windows and doors to keep heat in and damp out.
Check for:
• Draughts or gaps
• Worn seals or loose hinges
• Faulty communal entrance doors
Report shared-area issues to Habitare for repair. Simple preventative steps now can reduce energy costs and prevent future repairs.
Maintenance Focus: Test Your Smoke Alarms
Keep your home fire-safe this autumn:
• Test alarms monthly
• Replace batteries yearly
• Fit one per floor minimum
• Avoid candles — use battery-powered alternatives
Did you know?
Over 1,000 house fires a year in the UK are caused by candles. Stay safe with LED lighting options instead.
Fire Safety Reminder: Prevent Trip Hazards
To keep communal areas safe:
• Keep corridors and stairwells clear
• Report damaged flooring or mats
• Check lighting and report outages
Trip hazards are a common cause of accidents — especially for elderly or mobility-impaired residents. You can even WhatsApp photos of hazards directly to our team for a fast response.
Thank You from Habitare
Thank you for reading our September 2025 newsletter.
Your feedback helps us improve how we manage your block and support your community.
For assistance with any of the above, call us on 01245 330 291 or email support@habitare.uk. Our expert property management team is here to support leaseholders and directors with professional, transparent, and reliable block management services.
Together, we’re keeping your block running smoothly.