Every January, something familiar happens across Christchurch. Resident Management Companies (RMCs) and freeholders quietly dig out their service contracts, review their spreadsheets – and ask the same question:
“Are we really getting value from our block management provider?”
If you’re on the board of an RMC, or you’re a freeholder in charge of a residential building, the start of the year is often the time decisions are made. And in 2026, there’s a noticeable trend: a growing number of leaseholders in BH23 and beyond are switching to Belvoir Christchurch.
Here’s why.
Block management in Christchurch: A service that’s personal
Let’s be honest – block management doesn’t always get the best reputation. In many parts of Dorset, leaseholders and RMC directors alike complain of the same problems:
- Poor communication
- Slow response times
- Unexpected service charge rises
- A lack of local accountability
- Hidden fees in long service contracts
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
At Belvoir Christchurch, block management isn’t just a side service – it’s a specialist part of what we do, and we’ve built our reputation around doing it better. We understand that managing a block is more than collecting service charges or arranging repairs – it’s about people, homes, and trust.
The 2026 shift: Why more RMCs are switching providers
Across Christchurch and wider Dorset, the Right to Manage (RTM) sector has matured. More leaseholders are empowered, knowledgeable, and ready to expect more from their managing agent.
What’s driving the shift in 2026?
A surge in service charge reviews
As the cost of living continues to fluctuate, many blocks have seen their service charges rise by 5–10% year on year – often without a clear explanation. This has led many RMCs to take back control, reviewing contracts with scrutiny.
Increased legal awareness
RTM companies and freeholders are now more informed about their legal rights and obligations. Thanks to better guidance and case studies, it’s clearer than ever when a managing agent isn’t meeting their Section 21 or S.20 obligations.
Greater expectations for digital communication
In 2026, leaseholders expect modern, easy-to-access information: digital statements, transparent invoicing, and instant replies. Many older managing agents haven’t adapted, leaving blocks with outdated systems and slow processes.
Leasehold management in Dorset: What’s missing?
Many property managers in Dorset cover vast areas, with centralised teams based outside of Christchurch. That works for them but not always for you.
Leasehold management here requires local understanding:
- Contractors who turn up on time and do the job right
- Inspections from someone who actually visits your building
- Knowledge of local legislation and BH23 council procedures
- Personal relationships with your board or residents’ group
Without that, things fall through the cracks. And too often, it’s the leaseholders who are left chasing answers.
What makes Belvoir Christchurch different?
Here’s how we approach block management and why so many RMCs are making the switch.
Dedicated block management team
Unlike many agencies who tack block management onto lettings or sales, our team is structured around it. You’ll have a single point of contact who knows your building and your people – not a faceless helpdesk.
Transparent service charge management
We provide clear financial statements, with no hidden extras. You’ll see every outgoing, every quote, and every contractor invoice – laid out simply, with digital access when you need it.
Local contractor network
From roof repairs to fire safety checks, we work with a trusted network of Christchurch-based professionals. That means faster turnaround, better accountability, and competitive rates.
Support with RTM transitions
If you’re considering forming a Right to Manage company in BH23, we’ll walk you through the process. From legal steps to forming your company structure, we make it as straightforward as possible – with no jargon and no pressure.
Service charge management: Getting the balance right
One of the biggest frustrations we hear from leaseholders is around unexpected service charge increases. While some cost rises are inevitable – insurance premiums, inflation-linked contracts – many can be avoided with better planning and realistic budgeting.
At Belvoir Christchurch, we:
- Provide accurate forward planning for maintenance funds
- Benchmark costs against similar local blocks
- Offer free reviews of your current contractor rates
- Regularly meet with RMC directors to explain budgets before bills go out
This approach gives leaseholders confidence and clarity – and makes managing a block far less stressful.
When should you review your block management provider?
Most RMCs and freeholders take action when there’s a problem – but in truth, the best time to review is before you need to.
These are signs it might be time for a change:
- Your agent hasn’t visited the block in over 6 months
- Residents are consistently unhappy with communication
- You’ve had surprise charges or unexplained bills
- Annual accounts are delivered late or incomplete
- Your provider isn’t based locally and rarely visits
- There’s been turnover in your managing agent’s staff
If even one of these rings is true, Q1 is the perfect time to start exploring options. Contracts often roll year to year – but that doesn’t mean you can’t move.
We’ll happily review your current service agreement and offer a free, no-obligation consultation on how we’d manage your block differently.
Freehold management on the South Coast: A growing priority
Freeholders – especially those responsible for newer developments along the coast – are also making the switch. With changing health and safety laws, building fire compliance, and pressure on service delivery, managing agents are under greater scrutiny.
At Belvoir Christchurch, we work with developers and freeholders to:
- Manage mixed-tenure sites (leasehold and freehold)
- Navigate building compliance and safety standards
- Ensure transparency with residents
- Deliver site inspections, maintenance schedules and insurance compliance
If you’re a freeholder on the South Coast, we can help you protect your asset – while keeping residents informed and satisfied.
RTM companies in BH23: What you need to know in 2026
If you’re part of a block that’s not happy with your current management and you’re considering RTM, here are the basics:
- You need at least 50% of leaseholders to agree to the RTM process
- Your block must be self-contained with at least 2 flats
- A Right to Manage company must be formally incorporated
- A Notice of Claim is served on the landlord
- After 3+ months (if uncontested), your RMC takes over management
It’s not a small step – but it’s a powerful one. And we’ll support you from start to finish.
If you’re in the BH23 area and want to explore RTM, speak to our block management team for honest advice and practical next steps.
Why 2026 is the year of proactive property management
There’s a shift happening in how leaseholders view their homes. Gone are the days of simply accepting poor service or opaque accounts. Whether it’s a four-flat conversion or a 50-unit estate, people expect better.
And rightly so.
By switching to a specialist, local team – one that treats your block as if it were their own – you’re not just changing agents. You’re raising standards, improving value, and making life easier for everyone in the building.
Thinking of switching block management providers?
Here’s how to get started:
- Gather your documents – your current service contract, recent accounts, and any complaints or concerns
- Book a no-obligation review with our Belvoir Christchurch team
- We’ll assess your block and provide a tailored proposal with transparent fees
- You decide if you’d like to proceed. We’ll handle the handover, paperwork, and communication
Simple. Stress-free. And backed by local expertise.
Final word: Because property is personal
At Belvoir Christchurch, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your building is unique – your management should be, too.
Whether you’re an RTM director, a freeholder, or a leaseholder wanting change, we’re here to help you modernise your move in 2026.
Clearer accounts. Quicker replies. Smarter service.
Because property is personal.
