The Code
The recommendations contained in this Code represent the property industry's view of the most desirable structure for service charges, which will be appropriately implemented in new leases. Existing leases may contain service charge provisions which differ from the latest thinking within this Code. Where this is the case, existing service charge clauses will be interpreted as far as possible in line with the principles and practices as set out here, unless the lease specifically stipulates a different approach, which therefore has legal force.
The biggest single issue causing dissatisfaction in service charges is poor communication. Managers need to create the means to ensure excellent communication opportunities so that not only are services delivered effectively for the benefit of all, but occupiers are able to understand what they can expect to receive and how much they are required to pay.
This Code has been designed with larger properties in mind and it's application to smaller properties therefore requires both mangers and occupiers to apply common sense as to the scale of applicability of the Code, particularly in terms of cost benefit issues.
England & Wales Code
 | Service Charges in Commercial Property is an industry endorsed RICS code of practice. The Code for England and Wales came in to effect on 1st April 2007. |
Scottish Code
 | Service Charges in Commercial Property is an industry endorsed RICS code of practice. The Code for Scotland came in to effect on 11th September 2007. |
Northern Ireland Code
 | Service Charges in Commercial Property is an industry endorsed RICS code of practice. The Code for Northern Ireland came in to effect on 1st February 2008. |
Ireland Code
 | Service Charges in Commercial Property is an industry endorsed code of practice produced by RICS, the Society of Chartered Surveyors and the Irish Property and Facility Management Association. |
Cost Codes
 | The Code includes new standard industry cost code headings for service charges. |