The pro's and con's of flat Living
Not everyone will choose to live in flats through choice. Most of us would prefer the dream home, spacious garden, open outlook and rural setting. But restrictions on finances make town or city living the only option.
By following our guide you should be armed with the right clues to avoid a costly mistake. Be aware of the short term fixes employed by sellers to make a hard to sell property more marketable - ask the right questions and avoid the risks.
The benefits of flat living
Older properties
Tenements often have a community feel that doesn't always exist in new areas or in suburban homes. If you are sociable and outgoing the ability to mix at communal barbecues, parties or just day to day living is a bonding experience where friendships are forged. Chandler and co. may not exist but there are opportunities for those who live solitary lives to establish regular social contact - benefits to which can be seen when someone takes ill.
If gardens are not your forte the costs of upkeep are shared providing the free time to enjoy the garden rather than having to work in it. Property maintenance is shared making your budget go further and a communal fund motivates people to respect the premises as any damage is paid for.
The lack of a front door is compensated by increased security and flats tend to be warmer in the centre of the building giving a cosier appeal during those barren winter nights.
Established communities enjoy the best facilities
Flats tend to be situated in the centre of town implying good shopping facilities, coffee houses, bus services, and even the likelihood of a good "local". Established areas can even benefit from the demolition of the older more ugly buildings in favour of new build Executive homes. They often upgrade the tone of the area giving it a new lease of life while influencing surrounding property values.
With new developments come new opportunities such as Edinburgh's harbour area. Integrating the old with the modern can help revitalise an established town and bring with it new residents with fresh attitudes.
The disadvantages of flat living
Noise levels are a social problem that can be challenged
Probably the biggest concern in flat living is the random attributes of neighbours. The lack of Council housing and the trend towards buy-to-let has aggravated the situation as the inability to obtain proper housing has brought together people with no formal relationship, nor personal investment in the area. With no emotional or financial commitment, or longevity to the lease, a detached connection is mirrored in their lack of respect when considering others.
Noise levels are an issue and in severe cases can affect the quality of life. These are better addressed in modern premises where there can be a concierge or Property Management team but left to your own devices the situation can leave you feeling isolated.
There are a series of measures which can be taken and the best place to start is the local government website. Landlords are legally obliged to join the National Registration Scheme for Private
Landlords where they can be prevented from property letting if evidence can be shown that a landlord has failed to take action in relation to antisocial behaviour. You can also work with the Council more directly through their Anti-social Behaviour Investigation Team but the process can be long and corroboration is required before action can be taken.
If stair cleaning is the problem help is at hand
Regretably noise pollution and poor stair cleaning cleaning often go hand in hand. But services exist even for non-Council buildings and all it needs is a bit of initiative on the part of one household. You can find out more at the council website.
Stair cleaning is the responsibility of the occupiers, not owners or landlords under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982. This requires the occupiers to carry out the washing, sweeping and cleansing of any common stair, landing, passage or lobby to the satisfaction of the Director of Environmental and Consumer Services. Any occupier who contravenes the bye-law can be liable on summery conviction to a fine not exceeding £50 in respect of each offence. A Council will try and help when stair washing is a problem, writing advisory letters to households, and providing assistance in setting up rota's.
If you are becoming a victim and need help in any way then email Edinburgh council or contact them on 0131 469 5330.
Help for Landlords
Landlords too can be long suffering. But if you fail to take action you can be fined up to £5,000 so if you're facing what appear insurmountable difficulties with poor tenants then contact the Council and get help!
Return to Top
Return to Advice from ESPC.