Installing Security Systems ........ Block Management

[Rallentando]

Is there a legal requirement to have a security system on a block of privately owned flats?
I own a flat in a small block of twelve. There are 5 blocks in all, managed by an agent. The majority of the residents in my block (including myself) did not want a 24 hour security system installed because of the inconveniences incurred though we agreed to an open 7am til 7pm, then locked at night. which was communally acceptable. Now, because there was a break in at a flat a 5 minute walk away, our system has been changed, without consultation, to open 7am until 1pm. This caused considerable inconvenience and annoyance to the residents. Our security is based on a key system. Having to use another yale key for the main doors (front and rear) as well as our own doors. Does the agent have the right to inflict a security system of their choice of timing etc. contrary to the residents wishes?
Would they be able to have their previous system back or do the management have a LEGAL resposibility?.
Thank you to anyone who can answer .

[DangerUXD]

Not really a legal matter more of a civil dispute. Sorry if I'm being thick here but I don't see how you are being inconvenienced, you do have a key to get in and out at any time??

[daffy654]

Are you saying that the main door must be kept locked and you are being inconvenienced by this?

[bednobs]

it sounds like they are being inconvenienced by having to open another door with a key, rather than just swing it open.
I'm sorry, i'm not sure about your legal position here - did you have any legal bumph when you bought the flat that you can refer to as regards to the management company? When i lived in a block, the residents were directors of the management company, who then employed a company to do stuff for them (like organise the funds, grass cutting, window cleaning and so on). Thus we were able to give one MC the boot when we realised they weren't doing things how we wanted.

[themas]

I suggest you look at it as an attempt to improve your security - which it is. When I was involved with a block a similar system was introduced after it was found that people (presumably homeless) were coming in & sleeping in the passageways at night. In that case the residents ran the management company so they were all consulted.

In your case, the management is contracted out, presumably to a company appointed by the landlord (i.e. the freeholder). What they can do without consultation is probably down to what powers/responsibilities are reserved to the freeholder in your lease, & to the form of contract between the freeholder & management company.

In my (limited) experience it is unusual for there to be an open (or even partially open) system. I cannot see what serious inconvenience you are being put to, & suggest you will soon get used to it - no-one likes change!

If you want to enquire further I suggest you ring the leasehold advisory service - google them.