Executor dealing with FirstPort service charges on parents' retirement flat

[PlumDeer]

I’m hoping for some advice - both my parents died last year, their only asset being a Mccarthy and Stone flat. I am the executor, have probate and the flat has been on the market since January. My problem is with FirstPort who manage the property. The service charge is now due and I asked for it to be deferred until the flat sells as this is the only asset. They said not unless I had a buyer. Now they have offered a payment plan of £500 per month. Has anyone else dealt with this? Surely I am not personally liable to pay the charge . Should I get legal advice? Thanks

Urgg, these guys can be a nightmare to deal with. If there's any money left in the estate then you'll need to pays the service charges. If there's no funds you can ask for the fees to be deferred until the property is sold. Have you spoke to them ?

sorry for your loss.

there are threads about mccarthy and stone on here from people in the same position.

have a look at those but dont get your hopes up :-(

Playing devil's advocate.
What would happen if you didn't pay and told them in writing you would pay once the flat is sold?

Are they just bullying you into paying with threatening letters?

Thanks for your responses. I have sent them an e mail very clearly stating I am not personally liable for payment and that the estate will pay accrued charges when the flat sells. It does feel like bullying and a total disregard for the law - I am not the leaseholder of the flat, the estate is and that’s where the liability lies. I will look for the other threads mentioned, I was feeling so anxious and low about it last night I posted in desperation!

There is a Facebook group for MS owners and executors in this situation, many flats have been om the market unsold for 5 years+ and are now liable to pay double council tax.
if the flat has been bequeathed to a named person service charges are payable, if the flat is in the estate and there is no money Service charges can be rolled up and paid upon sale.

Why not auction it? It will at least get it off your hands

There’s been a lot in the press lately about this. Absolutely horrendous to deal with. People trying to hand back keys etc.

A flat was listed for twice £5,000 and failed to get any bids because the service charges are £1300 + per month there are also 13 vacant flats in the block.

In theory, these type of places are fab and what we need more of. But the stories of those who have to deal with the sale after the owner has passed are shocking to say the least.
I hope you find the other MS chats pp referenced OP. Stand firm and don't let them bully you !