What financial obligation do leaseholders have regarding communal facilities in shared properties?

Leaseholders in shared properties have a financial obligation to pay service charges to cover the costs associated with the upkeep and management of communal facilities. These charges are typically applied to shared areas such as hallways, gardens, and recreational spaces, and may include expenses for cleaning, maintenance, and management of these communal facilities.

Service charges are a key component of leasehold agreements, ensuring that all residents contribute fairly to the costs of maintaining common areas that benefit everyone in the community. This collective financial responsibility helps maintain the quality of life in shared properties and ensures that communal facilities remain in good condition. Without these contributions, it would be challenging to properly manage and maintain shared spaces, which could lead to deterioration and affect the overall living environment for all leaseholders.

While rent payments refer to the rent due for residing in the property, maintenance fees often refer to specific costs associated with repairs and upkeep of individual units rather than communal areas. Utility costs are usually the responsibility of individual leaseholders for their specific usage, rather than a shared cost. Thus, service charges are the correct obligation regarding communal facilities in shared properties.