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Service Charge Demand Letter

A completed leaseholder demand with an itemised budget, statutory summary, section 20 consultation note and First-tier Tribunal route.

Jurisdiction: England and Wales - completed fictional worked example

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Important: This sample provides general legal information only and is not legal advice. Check the law, prescribed forms and signing requirements that apply to your exact jurisdiction and circumstances before use.

# SERVICE CHARGE DEMAND LETTER

Date: 15 January 2030

Parties: Elmbridge Estates Limited and Sofia Bennett

## 1. Purpose and parties

Elmbridge Estates Limited, managing agent for Wessex Freeholds Limited, demands from Sofia Bennett, leaseholder of Flat 5, Maple Court, Guildford GU1 4LH, under the lease dated 1 September 2017. The demand is for the period 1 January–31 December 2030 and is an on-account charge.

## 2. Facts, scope and terms

The amount is £3,420, due by 31 January 2030 by BACS: building insurance £840, communal cleaning £540, gardening £360, lift maintenance £480, management fee £600, utilities £300 and reserve-fund contribution £300. The prior-year reconciliation is a £120 credit applied to the figure.

## 3. Process and responsibilities

The schedule describes services reasonably incurred for the building and the apportionment required by Sofia's lease. Major works costing more than the statutory threshold are not hidden in this demand: section 20 consultation for the planned £48,000 roof project will be served separately, and dispensation will be sought only if necessary.

## 4. Evidence, records and safeguards

Enclosed are the statutory summary of leaseholders' rights and obligations, the insurance schedule, budget and reserve-fund statement. Sofia may inspect accounts and receipts in accordance with the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 and may request a written explanation of an item or apportionment.

## 5. Review, escalation and outcome

Sofia should pay the undisputed amount by the due date or contact accounts@elmbridge.example promptly. A query does not automatically suspend payment, and late enforcement will follow the lease and applicable law. The parties should first try written resolution with the property manager.

## 6. Reservations and practical protections

A leaseholder may challenge the reasonableness or payability of a service charge at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber), subject to jurisdiction, lease terms and procedural limits. This letter is not a waiver of rights, a demand for section 20 major works or evidence that every future cost is recoverable.

## 7. England and Wales law and completion

England and Wales law applies. Notice is served by post to Sofia's flat and may alternatively be emailed to the address recorded by the agent, with receipt rules in the lease. Martin Cole signs for Elmbridge Estates on 15 January 2030; payment should quote MC-2030-05.

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