On 1st October, the fourth ‘Proper Talk’ event took place at the prestigious RICS Lecture Hall in Parliament Square, London. Set in this spectacular venue, the event brought together industry experts for a lively discussion at breakfast time on the latest issues impacting block management.
What is Proper Talk?
Proper Talk is a collaboration between key industry players: EK Reinstatement Cost Assessments (part of the Earl Kendrick Group), Bridge Insurance Brokers, and JC Property Consultancy. Conceived by Jack Seton, Head of FlatGuard at Bridge Insurance, James Paul, Director at EK RCAs and Jonathan Channing of JC Property Consultancy Ltd, this powerful partnership address the ever-evolving challenges and opportunities in block and property management, providing a platform for honest and robust discussion and debate – all of which provides unique and invaluable CPD for property managers.
The Format: Property Management’s ‘Question Time’
Moderated by Jonathan Channing, the event followed a ‘Question Time’ format, where audience participation played a pivotal role. With a total of 21 questions posed from attendees, the conversation throughout remained interactive, engaging, controversial at times, but highly relevant to the pressing issues faced by block management professionals and suppliers to the sector.
The distinguished panel included experts from various fields:
- Jaclyn Mangaroo, Chief Communications Officer, The Property Institute
- Yashmin Mistry, Managing Partner, JPC
- James Paul, Director of EK Reinstatement Cost Assessment Ltd
- Dave Piggin, Managing Director, Dwellant
- Dr. Shaun Lundy, Quality Assurance & Strategy Director, Tetra Consulting
This stellar lineup set the stage for thought-provoking insights and expert opinions, allowing the audience to address critical questions concerning the future of the industry.
Key Topics Discussed
The discussions spanned a wide range of critical themes, including:
- Industry positivity and how a ‘glass half-full’ mentality is essential for progress
- Commoditisation of block management services
- Net-zero initiatives in the property sector
- Escape of water claims and the insurance fallout
- The ongoing challenge of rising insurance costs
- Building safety and the ramifications for managing agents
- The need for a clear RICS route to qualification for managing HRBs (High-Risk Buildings)
- The role of AI and emerging technologies in shaping property management practices
- The ever-controversial topic of homeworking vs a return to office-based management
- Resident engagement and what it really entails for property managers, leaseholders and their tenants.
Top Highlights
For many attendees, the discussion on AI and its future role in property management stood out. There was a consensus that while technology can streamline processes, it is crucial for it to remain an assistant, rather than dictating the workflow.
Building safety was another major focus, particularly the challenges faced by PAPs (Principal Accountable Persons), their guiding fire safety experts and their managing agents. The sector is facing enormous pressure from regulatory demands and insurance market fluctuations, creating an environment of uncertainty.
On the more positive side, the panel encouraged attendees to see the industry's challenges as opportunities, particularly in the areas of safety regulations and leasehold reforms.
The Importance of Safety and New Talent
Personal safety for property managers, especially in high-pressure environments, was also discussed at length. Jodie Fraser’s question to the panel on the safety of property managers whilst on the job, and the publicity of the Hollie Guard app, were a timely reminder of the practical steps property professionals can take to protect themselves while performing their day-to-day duties.
The event also highlighted the urgent need for new blood in the sector. Fresh perspectives and new approaches are required to tackle the complex challenges ahead, particularly around regulation and evolving customer expectations.
Looking Ahead
With such a diverse range of topics covered, Proper Talk provided a platform for meaningful debate and forward-thinking ideas. The event not only shed light on the current state of the property management industry but also hinted at the changes to come – particularly around technology, safety, and the evolving role of managing agents.
As the block management sector continues to navigate through these complex issues, events like Proper Talk are essential in fostering dialogue and finding practical solutions.
Proper Talk comes to Manchester in January 2025. If you’re interested in attending, visit the Proper Talk website www.proper-talk.co.uk and contact Jonathan Channing to secure your place.
