SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE

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A Framework Code of Management Practice for Owner Occupied Sheltered Housing

ANNEX 3

OWNERS’ INFORMATION PACK

The Owners Information Pack will contain: -

• A copy of the Code of Management Practice.
• Details of the developer (including name and addresses).
• Details of the manager (including name and addresses), their responsibilities and any business relationship with the developer.
• A definition of the duties of the warden, including hours of service, how back up support and emergency cover is provided, and details of the emergency alarm system and its operation.
• A description of all the services for which the owner is charged.
• A full breakdown of all anticipated periodic and one off charges to be paid by owners.
• Re-sale arrangements, including the requirement to notify the manager.
• Information on consultation and complaints procedures and on owners’ associations.
• A clear explanation of any Deed of Conditions, explaining how it will impact on the day to day running of the development.
• Any detailed rules concerning the management of the development.
• Details of insurance cover for the development, including buildings, communal contents, the manager’s professional indemnity, property owner’s liability and employees’ insurance.
• A list of common repairs which will be the responsibility of the manager.
• Information on repair procedures.
• Details of the complaints procedures, which should cover: -
  • how complaints should be recorded
  • with whom complaints can be lodged
  • target timescales for responses
  • who to contact if a complaint is to be taken further (internal company contacts, external organisations, including the advice and information service and the Housing Association Ombudsman).
• Details of how to approach Age Concern Scotland’s advice and information service.
• Details of proposed or existing Owners’ Association.
• Details on the management and use of a sinking fund, including accountability to owners.
• Details of how surpluses and deficits will be treated.
• Details of how owners can report to the manager on the performance of the warden and other staff.- Advice on what a potential owner should ask their solicitor to check including what a Deed of Conditions should cover, whether the builder is a member of the National House Building Council (NHBC) and whether the dwelling has a warranty.
• Importance of obtaining independent legal advice, including advice on the Deed of Conditions, and powers of the feudal superior.
• Procedures for debt recovery.

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