12 questions to ask a managing agent before you appoint

Money

1. Do you have client money protection, and can we see the certificate? EKIN's is UKALA, membership 24113.
2. Where will our service charge and reserve funds be held? The answer should be a client or trust account, separate from the agent's own money.
3. What is included in the management fee, and what is charged extra? Ask for a written list of additional charges.
4. Do you or anyone connected to you receive commissions from insurers, brokers or contractors? Anything received should be disclosed in writing.

Reporting and access

5. What will directors receive, and how often? Ask to see a sample report.
6. Can we see the building's documents without asking? At EKIN, named directors have read-only access to an agreed set of the building's current records.
7. When will year-end accounts be issued? Late accounts are one of the most common complaints about agents.
8. How do you track fire safety and other compliance? Ask to see a compliance register.

People and process

9. Who will be our named manager, and how many buildings do they look after?
10. How do you run major works and Section 20 consultations? Ask who writes the specifications and who supervises on site.
11. Which redress scheme are you a member of? EKIN is a member of the Property Redress Scheme, PRS057065.

Handover and exit

12. What is the notice period, and what happens to our records if we leave? A confident agent will have a short notice period and a clear handover commitment.

If your current agent struggles with these questions, read how to change managing agent.

Written by Mikel Munoz-SanchezFounder & Director of EKIN Property Management, with a background in engineering, construction and project management. About our team.

Last reviewed 2026-09-23 against the sources listed. This page is general information about England and is not legal advice; the lease for your building always comes first.