Service charge
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A service charge is payable by a tenant for services provided by the landlord for the repair and
maintenance of common parts, such as lifts, reception areas and the external structure of the
building. The service charge usually includes managing agent’s fees. It is normally collected quarterly
in advance, at the same time as the rent. A service charge payment can be capped in order to limit a
tenant’s financial liability. The RICS has developed a Service Charge Code of Practice to improve
standards and promote consistency, fairness, transparency and best practice in the management
and administration of commercial property service charges.