This is looking like Fleecehold, isn't it? :(

[Uncooperativefingers]

We put a reservation fee down on an off plan new build, after being assured that the estate management fees would only increase by RPI (but only verbally, I know I know...)

Now the solicitors have looked at the contracts, it turns out that there actually is no cap on the estate management fees. The estate manager will be Trinity, who Google shows to have an awful reputation. The council is adopting the roads, lighting etc, so Trinity are just maintaining the park, green space and attenuation basin.

My concern is that this is a "fleecehold estate" and we will be subjected to spiralling costs that we can't control. Or indeed that if the fleecehold scandal breaks in the media we will be unable to sell on as others won't want to take on the liability...

I'm not being ridiculous am I? I'm going to have to pull out?

Too many uncertainties, and if you can’t get definite answers it’s not worth the risk. It may be really hard to find a buyer in future if you need to sell, the fees may have gone up to who knows what and your house won’t be new anymore. I’d find another house...

I completely agree AwdBovril but you're saying that the purchaser's solictiors, who have no power over the developer, should do something about it. Even if we want to make a minor changes to the draft Transfer before it's all signed, we generally get met with "This is our standard Transfer and we're not changing it".

I know, MinnieMountain what I actually think they should do about it is refuse to get involved with purchases of these type of properties, & be candid with the buyers as to why that is. If purchasers can't find a solicitor, sales will not be able to proceed, & the property developers will (hopefully) stop allowing these onerous clauses once it hits them in the bank account.

I work for smaller developers drafting their plot paperwork.

On our sites our clients always handover the estate management company to the residents so that they are in charge of their own destiny.

With companies likes Trinity they are awful to deal with. When you come to sell they will charge 000's for the management pack and probably 000's more for the for any restriction certificate.
The problem with freehold management costs is there is no legislation that says they must be reasonable etc. As there is with leasehold and no right to challenge.
I'm sure it will come evwntually......

Personally I would not buy the new build. Buyers are more and more wary.

Ask for your reservation fee back and if TW won't agree complain under the consumer code for Housebuilders.