Residents on a private estate can find they have to pay whatever charge the managing company decides for whatever level of service. We believe this industry is not regulated enough and that homeowners currently feel ignored by the government. Action must be taken to stop the practice of 'fleecehold' and protect freeholders.

We believe that there are hundreds of buyers unaware of the consequences of buying a house with covenants attached, tying them in forever to fees for communal areas.

Leaseholders have the Right to Manage (RTM). Freeholders should have the same rights to set up an RTM for communal areas should they so wish.”