Property Pitfalls: Navigating Disputes, Deposits, and Service Charges

28/05/2025 18 min Temporada 1 Episodio 14

Listen "Property Pitfalls: Navigating Disputes, Deposits, and Service Charges"

Episode Synopsis


In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Thom Wilkinson, Head of Residential Property Team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Karen Bright, Head of Litigation, for a comprehensive discussion on the hidden pitfalls of property transactions.

From holding deposits and disclosure obligations to service charge caps and incomplete transactions, Thom and Karen explore real-world issues buyers and sellers face in today’s property market. Whether you're navigating a leasehold agreement, facing unexpected completion delays, or wondering about your responsibilities as a seller, this episode is packed with crucial legal insights to guide you through complex scenarios.

You’ll also hear about recent case law that’s impacting transactions, including the now-infamous London moth infestation ruling, and how landlords are being scrutinised under new government reforms affecting service charges.

If you're a property owner, buyer, seller, or legal professional, this episode offers indispensable guidance on protecting your interests and avoiding costly mistakes.

Chapter Markers:

(02:04) Holding Deposits: What Are the Risks?

(04:06) Disclosure Duties and Neighbour Disputes

(06:01) Case Law: Moth Infestation & Non-Disclosure

(08:21) What Happens When Completion Fails?

(11:37) Service Charges: What Can Landlords Really Charge?

(15:33) What If Services Aren’t Delivered? Tenant Remedies

Useful Links:

Connect with Thom Wilkinson on LinkedIn

Reach out to Karen Bright on LinkedIn

Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website

More episodes of the podcast Listen Without Prejudice | A Podcast from Bishop & Sewell