Exposing Service Charge Abuse: Why Your Voice Matters

Guest blog by housing campaign SHAC

Across the UK, thousands of tenants and leaseholders are being overcharged or mischarged through service charges. Many of these charges are inaccurate, unaffordable, or entirely unjustified, yet current systems offer little recourse. To tackle this, housing campaign group SHAC, in partnership with the Public Interest Law Centre, is calling on those affected to help build a strong evidence base. 

The Tenant and Resident Survey 

On Saturday 9 January 2026, SHAC launched a survey for anyone who has suffered service charge abuse. This 10-minute questionnaire is more than a data collection exercise — it is the foundation for a strategic legal challenge against the government. The claim: government inaction has failed to protect tenants and residents from systematic service charge abuse. 

By completing the survey, tenants and residents contribute their first-hand experiences, helping to document patterns of overcharging, errors, and lack of accountability. This evidence is essential to support legal action and push for meaningful reform. 

The MPs’ Survey 

We are also surveying Members of Parliament on how this issue is impacting their constituents.  MPs have until 13th February 2026 to complete it. This survey raises awareness among policymakers about the real impact of service charge abuse on constituents and helps inform parliamentary action and potential reforms. 

Why These Surveys Matter 

Collecting and presenting robust evidence is crucial. Many tenants covered by housing benefits cannot challenge inaccurate service charges themselves, and whistle-blowers face potential retaliation. By participating in these surveys, both tenants and MPs help expose practices that drain public funds and unfairly burden residents, especially in times of economic hardship. 

The combined impact of resident testimonies and political awareness provides the evidence needed to demand stronger regulation, accountability, and ultimately, justice for those affected. 

Take Action Today 

• If you have experienced service charge abuse, complete the tenant and resident survey as soon as possible.

• Encourage your MP to complete the survey and stay engaged with this issue before 13th February 2026.

Your voice matters. Together, we can hold landlords and government accountable. Here are the details for completing the survey...https://shaction.org/2026-service-charge-survey/