How to dispute Leaseholder Service Charges

What to do if you don't agree with your service charges

We will always try to calculate your service charge with a 'right first time' approach.

If you think we have miscalculated your service charge, or charged you for a service you haven't received, please read the following information which will advise you on the steps you can take and how we will help to resolve the matter.

Stage one - Review by Home Ownership Team

First of all, please contact our Home Ownership Team know straight away if you think we have miscalculated your service charge, or charged you for a service you haven't received, please email leaseenquiry@basildon.gov.uk.

We will look at your account and if we can see that you have been charged incorrectly, we will immediately make arrangements for any necessary adjustments. We will advise you of the outcome of our investigation within 10 working days.

Stage two - Review by Home Ownership Senior Officer

If you are not happy with the initial outcome of your dispute you should send details of your reasons for disputing the charge to the Leasehold Senior Officer, by emailing leaseenquiry@basildon.gov.uk.  Your case will be investigated fully and a response will be sent to you within 10 working days.

Stage three - Review by Home Ownership Manager

If you are not happy with the outcome of the Home Ownership Senior Officer enquiry, you can request that your dispute is reviewed by the Home Ownership Manager. You will need to clearly set out your reasons in writing (by email or in a letter) for disputing the Service Charge. By email leaseenquiry@basildon.gov.uk, please mark your email correspondence, "For the Attention of The Home Ownership Manager".

By letter send to 

The Home Ownership Team
Basildon Council
The Basildon Centre
St. Martins Square
Basildon, Essex
SS14 1DL

Your case will be investigated fully and a response sent to you within 20 working days.

Should it be necessary the Home Ownership Manager will review the matter in consultation with Basildon Borough Council's legal department.

Stage four - Review by First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

If you remain dissatisfied and want to take the dispute further you can apply for a review of your case by the First-tier Tribunal, also known as the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal.
Phone: 01223 841524
Email: rpeastern@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk