Help guides

How to avoid unexpected charges

3 min read

We want everyone to enjoy living in a safe, high quality home. That’s why we ask all our customers to look after their homes and shared spaces. 

What is a recharge? 

A recharge is a cost you may need to pay if damage, repairs or other issues at your home were caused by you, someone in your household or your visitors. We will never charge you for normal wear and tear or for issues that are our responsibility. 

When you may be charged 

 Below are the most common situations where a recharge could apply. 

 You may be charged if damage is caused by: 

  • accidental damage 

  • neglect 

  • damage caused by pets 

  • wilful or deliberate damage 

  • damage caused by visitors 

If the damage was caused by a crime (for example, a break in), you will not be charged as long as you provide a valid crime reference number. 

These are examples to help guide you, but they’re not a full list of everything that could lead to a recharge. 

Lost keys or lock changes 

 If we need to replace: 

  • lost keys or fobs 

  • door locks 

  • communal door entry fobs 

you may be charged for the cost of replacements. 

Cleaning, rubbish removal or garden clearance 

 You may be charged if we need to: 

  • remove bulk rubbish or fly tipping linked to your household 

  • clear an overgrown garden 

  • clean or clear your home after you move out 

Pest control  

If pests are present because of conditions inside the home (for example, poor food storage or waste), you may be charged for treatment. For further information, please see: How to deal with a pest infestation in your home

Damage to communal areas 

You may be charged if you, your household or your visitors cause damage in shared areas such as: 

  • lifts 

  • hallways 

  • bin stores

  • doors or entry systems 

Legal costs 

 If legal action is taken and the court awards costs to us, these may be recharged to you. 

When you will not be charged 

 We will not apply recharges when: 

  • damage is due to normal wear and tear 

  • you provide a crime reference number for criminal damage 

  • damage is linked to domestic abuse 

  • a disability or other protected characteristic affects your ability to maintain your home 

  • we did not give enough notice for an appointment. 

If you disagree with a recharge 

If you receive a recharge and think it is incorrect, you can challenge it. Details on how to do this will be included in your recharge letter. 

We’re here to help 

If you’re ever unsure whether something might lead to a recharge, or you need support maintaining your home, please contact us 

View our Customer Recharge Policy 

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