Why does HRA have a Service Charge?
Whenever a house is purchased on the Heathfield estate there is a direct covenant between the HRA and the new buyer. This is a legal requirement in accordance with the Articles of Association and goes back to when the houses were first sold by Blue Boar. Included in any contract for the sale of the property is a condition that the intending purchaser shall upon completion apply to become registered as a member of the Association.
As such, each new house owner becomes a shareholder in the company and is issued with a share certificate by HRA. The Deed of Covenant between HRA and the house owner stipulates an obligation to pay a share of the costs and expenses incurred by the association.
This is the main income stream for the Association and the money is used for the maintenance and upkeep of the estate. It is extremely important that HRA obtain fees from all shareholders to ensure that sufficient funds are available for this purpose.
There has not been an increase in service charge fees for 12 years. In 2023 shareholders voted for a staggered increase over 2 years to ensure our income keeps up with increases in inflation.
What is the Current Fee?
The current annual service charge fee effective January 2025 is £180.00
Fees are payable on a monthly, 6 monthly or annual basis. There are several methods of payment, with a bank mandate being the most suitable. A document detailing how to pay and a Standing Order Mandate are available also on the website. In accordance with the signed deed of covenant, fees are due in full at the start of the pay period, with the exception of monthly payments by standing order.
Other fees charged by HRA
Fees are charged to buyers and sellers of properties on the estate during the conveyancing process. This covers the information provided to conveyancers in relation to the changes of ownership and the legal implications on new owners. This is a legal requirement which is carried out by an HRA Board member responsible for conveyancing work. For more information email conveyancing@HRA-Duxford,org.uk
Sellers fee is £300, (payable once a sale has been agreed) and the Buyers fee is £250 ( payable once the sale reaches completion)
Selling Your House
If you intend selling your house you are advised to contact your solicitor / conveyancing agent as soon as possible so that they are aware of the obligation in respect of service charges and the requirement to enter in a deed of covenant with HRA.
Who is responsible for managing the Fees?
HRA employ a firm of Accountants to manage the published finances. They are The Accountancy Practice, based in Royston. Contact Us – The Accountancy Practice Ltd They record all payments and send out invoices and statements to shareholders on bi-annual basis. Anyone who fails to pay their fees or who is in arrears will be referred to HRA for appropriate action.
Account Queries
If you have a query about your HRA fees you should contact the following:
Sue Meehan
Finance Director
finance@hra-duxford.org.uk