The Completion and Markets Authority constantly monitor issues affecting consumers in the marketplace. They can take enforcement action where laws for consumer protection have been broken. They also have a remit to prevent cartels, which we feel the new build sector has become, offering no real choice over how estates are managed.
They have taken action over doubling ground rents in new leasehold houses, and have previously indicated they may look at “fleecehold” estate charges. They have just opened an investigation (March 2023) and are asking for comments. It is quite easy to comment , here is a guidance/template to follow if you could use a framework. It would also only take a few minutes to copy your email in to your MP!
In addition to misrepresentation at the point of sale, estate charges also generally offer little or no choice, and there is no system of redress or regulation of agents, in spite of governments promises.
Surveys and polls of affected home owners indicate their preferred outcome is full council adoption. STOP THE ROT ADOPT THE LOT!!!
When you have composed your message you can email it to general.enquiries@cma.gov.uk
NOTE – if you are writing to comment on the housebuilding investigation please send your email to housebuilding@cma.gov.uk Thank you!!
For more guidance see the CMA’s own page at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tell-the-cma-about-a-competition-or-market-problem
And as an editable document:
