Anyone with Experience of Disputing Major Works Invoice from Lewisham Homes?

[RubyE]

Hi

I'm looking for someone that has had experience with Lewisham Homes/Lewisham Council with regards to disputing major works costs, and is willing to share their experience with me.

We had major works carried out in 2014. Were sent a Summary of Costs in May 2018 (which I now see has the word 'Invoice' in the header), which we (the residents) questioned this as most of the listed works were not carried out. Plus they were over-charging us for work and materials; for example, £150 for a tin of paint. Lewisham Homes carried out a site visit in October 2018 to discuss the matter and agreed that the work detailed had not been done. We were told it was being referred to the major works team and heard no more, despite our best efforts to chase. Now, 6.5 years later, yesterday I received a final notice demanding payment for today.

So I'm looking for someone who has successfully or unsuccessfully disputed their major works invoice from Lewisham Homes. Even better, has taken them to a tribunal.

Alternatively, can anyone recommend a decent property lawyer who specialises in leasehold properties.

[Parker1970]

Have you tried discussing it with your local MP? I imagine some news channels like Metro or BBC or even social media may get it some attention.

[RubyE]

Perhaps my local MP is the next step. I don't think the news agencies would be interested in me and my woes.

At the moment I need someone who can coach me through this. I'm fighting this on my own and, due to health reasons, I don't have the energy to go it entirely alone. I've tried to engage the only other residents in the building but they have a 'bury their heads in the sand approach'; if they ignore it, the debt will go away. Whereas I want to face this head on and come to an agreement with Lewisham. It's been like that for the past 15 years, this is not the first time I've gone to battle with Lewisham Homes.

I am meeting with the Leasehold Advisory this week but If I find someone that is willing to share their experiences and/or point me in the right direction, that would help a lot.

[RubyE]

Matter has been resolved. The legal advice given is it costly and difficult to fight Lewisham Council in the courts. The best course of action is their formal complaint process, followed by the Property Ombudsman. Then tribunal as a last resort.