From crisis to confidence: transforming a residential block

The Challenge

When we were appointed to manage an 87 unit residential development in the Midlands, we inherited one of the most challenging recovery projects in our 20-year history. The three-block estate - rising over 18 meters and built in the early 2000s - had suffered decades of mismanagement. Years of poor oversight, inadequate maintenance, and financial mismanagement had left the building and its residents in crisis. The problems were extensive:

• Multiple water ingress issues affecting residents' quality of life
• Non-functioning lifts and failing mechanical systems
• Security concerns including malicious damage and rough sleepers
• No financial reserves and significant outstanding debts, including £38,000 in utility arrears
• Service charges that didn't reflect the true cost of managing the property

Most critically, the development faced severe fire safety challenges in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy. Issues with cladding, fire doors, alarms, and compartmentation meant the building was under intense scrutiny, with the Fire Brigade seriously considering evacuation.

Our Approach

Appointed by a newly formed residents' board determined to take back control, Encore immediately prioritised three key areas:

1. Fire Safety First – Addressing urgent life-safety issues through systematic risk assessment and remediation planning
2. Financial Stabilisation – Tackling debts, creating reserves, and establishing sustainable service charges
3. Essential Maintenance – Restoring critical building systems and improving security

Working closely with the board of directors, we developed a comprehensive recovery plan that balanced urgent needs with long-term sustainability.

The Results

Today, the development's transformation is well underway:

• Cladding Remediation: Successfully secured government funding through the Cladding Safety Scheme, with remediation works progressing through a 2.5-year programme
• Fire Safety Upgrades: Completed comprehensive projects covering fire doors, alarm systems, and compartmentation to significantly reduce risk
• Building Systems Restored: Essential maintenance completed on lifts, water systems, and M&E infrastructure
• Enhanced Security: Improved measures protecting residents and the building
• Financial Recovery: Debts addressed, reserves building, and sustainable service charges implemented
• Resident Engagement: Collaborative approach ensuring leaseholder support and understanding throughout the process

The Encore Difference

This project demonstrates our commitment to recovery work and our ability to tackle even the most complex challenges. Through expert project management, transparent communication, and partnership with resident directors, we've transformed a building in crisis into a development with a positive future. With cladding works ongoing the journey isn’t over, but the decisive turnaround in the building's fortunes shows what's possible when expertise, determination, and collaboration come together.

Is your development facing similar challenges? Contact Encore to discover how our experienced team can help restore confidence and standards to your property.