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King Not Off The Hook?
Not King Charles, but Martin King has not been left off the hook by the housing select committee chaired by the excellent Florence Eshalomi MP who has been instrumental in scrutinizing the conduct of Firstport in general and Mr King in particular.
In a very hard hitting letter to Mr King she reminded him of his promises that he made to the committee during his feeble appearance before them and told him in no uncertain terms to comply with the committee's demands, something he has yet to do.
In an effort to assist the committee further in their endeavours About Firstport has written to Florence Eshalomi suggesting she asks Mr King the following questions when he is hauled back before them.
Question 1)
As a percentage how many developments under Firstport management are as a result of freeholder/developer appointments for which residents have no say in the appointment and how many come from residents appointing Firstport with their freewill?
Question 2)
How many late charge demands have been sent out when the demand has been disputed?
Question 3)
How many settlements have been negotiated with residents that have been subjected to a Non Disclosure Agreement?
Question 4)
How many Firstport managed developments have an ongoing dispute as to the title of the land?
Question 5)
How did it come to be that Firstport ended up holding the leaseholds of the Residential House Manager's flats at McCarthy & Stone Firstport managed retirement developments?
Question 6)
Did Firstport mortgage those flats and did they declare a restriction on those flats when mortgaging them?
Question 7)
How did former CEO Nigel Howell end up owning the leasehold on several Residential House Manager's flats?
Question 8)
How many Firstport managed developments are over a year late in supplying development accounts?
Question 9)
Tribunals have ruled Account Preparation Fees should be part of the management fee. Why are Firstport still charging for them?
Question 10)
Why are Firstport charging Monitoring Fees for developments that have no monitoring?
In a very hard hitting letter to Mr King she reminded him of his promises that he made to the committee during his feeble appearance before them and told him in no uncertain terms to comply with the committee's demands, something he has yet to do.
In an effort to assist the committee further in their endeavours About Firstport has written to Florence Eshalomi suggesting she asks Mr King the following questions when he is hauled back before them.
Question 1)
As a percentage how many developments under Firstport management are as a result of freeholder/developer appointments for which residents have no say in the appointment and how many come from residents appointing Firstport with their freewill?
Question 2)
How many late charge demands have been sent out when the demand has been disputed?
Question 3)
How many settlements have been negotiated with residents that have been subjected to a Non Disclosure Agreement?
Question 4)
How many Firstport managed developments have an ongoing dispute as to the title of the land?
Question 5)
How did it come to be that Firstport ended up holding the leaseholds of the Residential House Manager's flats at McCarthy & Stone Firstport managed retirement developments?
Question 6)
Did Firstport mortgage those flats and did they declare a restriction on those flats when mortgaging them?
Question 7)
How did former CEO Nigel Howell end up owning the leasehold on several Residential House Manager's flats?
Question 8)
How many Firstport managed developments are over a year late in supplying development accounts?
Question 9)
Tribunals have ruled Account Preparation Fees should be part of the management fee. Why are Firstport still charging for them?
Question 10)
Why are Firstport charging Monitoring Fees for developments that have no monitoring?
Posted by The Editor on 10 July 2025
Editor,
Excellent questions. I look forward to the reported answer's which I hope are supported by that firms actual key performance indicators ?
Excellent questions. I look forward to the reported answer's which I hope are supported by that firms actual key performance indicators ?
Posted by Stephen Burns on 11 July 2025
Dear Mr Editor
I believe that LKP accredited MA WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD should be asked why £15.000 was charged in legal fee s ( 2024) under its management when there was no litigation. Oh dear! Trouble and possible criminal action ahead. Something stinks!
I believe that LKP accredited MA WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD should be asked why £15.000 was charged in legal fee s ( 2024) under its management when there was no litigation. Oh dear! Trouble and possible criminal action ahead. Something stinks!
Posted by Kim on 11 July 2025
Have you sought the advice of the independent government funded Leasehold Advisory Service?
Oh! Hang on a minute? The chair of the independent government funded Leasehold Advisory Service chairs LKP who accredited Westbury as well. So perhaps any advice from them might not be totally independent?
Oh! Hang on a minute? The chair of the independent government funded Leasehold Advisory Service chairs LKP who accredited Westbury as well. So perhaps any advice from them might not be totally independent?
Posted by Michael Epstein on 12 July 2025
Indeed! Thanks to my effort WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL got the boot in October 2023. The new MA has recently circulated the 2024 accounts……I exercised my rights under S22 of the L&T Act 1985 to inspect the invoices and vouchers…It ain’t looking good form Westbury or the previous directors of the shared freehold company. I will continue to follow the money and the truth will emerge…..
Posted by Kim on 12 July 2025
If you feel there may be 'something wrong'and LKP accredited Westbury Residetial, surely LKP are the ones to go to for help. Isn't that what they are their for?
Posted by Roger on 13 July 2025
Roger, you might well think that, but as is so very common with all things leasehold, once money is involved principles go out of the window.
And that is precisely what has happened with both LKP and NLC.
Yes, this site has swum against the popular tide of those blindly following LKP and NLC, but if the issues of leasehold are to be resolved, that resolution has to come about with integrity and honesty. LKP and NLC lack both. Gradually more of their supporters are realising the truth. Indeed former LKP/NLC stalwart Harry Scoffin saw the light, walked away, set up his own site and is doing an amazing job.
And that is precisely what has happened with both LKP and NLC.
Yes, this site has swum against the popular tide of those blindly following LKP and NLC, but if the issues of leasehold are to be resolved, that resolution has to come about with integrity and honesty. LKP and NLC lack both. Gradually more of their supporters are realising the truth. Indeed former LKP/NLC stalwart Harry Scoffin saw the light, walked away, set up his own site and is doing an amazing job.
Posted by The Editor on 13 July 2025
Hi Roger
I Informed LKP years ago that WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD was a wrong un.. LKP couldn’t have cared less and blocked me from their blog site.I understand that Scoffin and Michael Epstein are also blocked.,LKP is not fit for purpose and should lose its charitable status IMO.
I Informed LKP years ago that WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD was a wrong un.. LKP couldn’t have cared less and blocked me from their blog site.I understand that Scoffin and Michael Epstein are also blocked.,LKP is not fit for purpose and should lose its charitable status IMO.
Posted by Kim on 14 July 2025
RTM
Finally it looks as though Warminger Court in Norwich is going RTM, and First Port along with he awful PM P. Diddy, is getting the boot!!! Finally!
Posted by Ed Mason on 06 July 2025
Hopefully the PM has a size 9 foot and received a size 6 boot!
Posted by The Editor on 06 July 2025
Martin King Military Veteran
If you watch the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee held on 17 June, you will see that Martin King is wearing a badge. What is not so obvious is that it is the Armed Forces Veterans badge. As a veteran with a number of year’s service, I take exception to him wearing this badge in front of the HCLG Committee. It was totally inappropriate. I would suggest that he is trying to send a message to the MPs that as an ex member of the Armed Forces he has integrity and honesty. I am disgusted.
Martin King has VR after his name, which stands for Volunteer Reserves. In a Firstport website post dated 5 June 2024, he states “As a military veteran, I am passionate about ensuring we use our experience to help veterans into appropriate housing. With the combined efforts of our colleagues, customers, and partners, I am confident we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have served our country with courage and dedication.”
Firstport have certainly had an impact on my life and continue to have!
Martin King has VR after his name, which stands for Volunteer Reserves. In a Firstport website post dated 5 June 2024, he states “As a military veteran, I am passionate about ensuring we use our experience to help veterans into appropriate housing. With the combined efforts of our colleagues, customers, and partners, I am confident we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who have served our country with courage and dedication.”
Firstport have certainly had an impact on my life and continue to have!
Posted by Chris on 06 July 2025
Trying to use his military past to curry favour is absolutely disgusting!
It didn't stop Firstport hounding a former WW2 Squadron Leader or a Major even whilst on active service?
It didn't stop Firstport hounding a former WW2 Squadron Leader or a Major even whilst on active service?
Posted by Michael Epstein on 06 July 2025
Chris & Michael,
As a Veteran of HM Armed Forces, I am concerned that this traditional form of tenure has not yet been reformed. I fully understand the necessity for our democratically elected lawmakers to draft legislation meticulously, and I believe that Mr Pennycook demonstrates a strong grasp of the current situation and is well positioned to deliver effective reform as soon as possible.
In my view, existing industry accreditations within this sector are inadequate and fail to provide meaningful oversight.
It is essential to implement regulatory measures for managing agents to help realise the vision of "Commonhold"
Active service members and Veterans have long memories regarding injustices, and it is important that such matters are noted.
It remains crucial for those in authority to act promptly and decisively to implement substantive reform. Doing so will meet public expectations and restore confidence in a system that currently falls short.
The move away from outdated tenures toward an environment defined by fairness, transparency, and accountability will ensure that all who have served, and continue to serve, are duly honoured. Their sacrifices deserve to be matched by justice at home.
Stephen Burns
Veteran
The Parachute Regiment
As a Veteran of HM Armed Forces, I am concerned that this traditional form of tenure has not yet been reformed. I fully understand the necessity for our democratically elected lawmakers to draft legislation meticulously, and I believe that Mr Pennycook demonstrates a strong grasp of the current situation and is well positioned to deliver effective reform as soon as possible.
In my view, existing industry accreditations within this sector are inadequate and fail to provide meaningful oversight.
It is essential to implement regulatory measures for managing agents to help realise the vision of "Commonhold"
Active service members and Veterans have long memories regarding injustices, and it is important that such matters are noted.
It remains crucial for those in authority to act promptly and decisively to implement substantive reform. Doing so will meet public expectations and restore confidence in a system that currently falls short.
The move away from outdated tenures toward an environment defined by fairness, transparency, and accountability will ensure that all who have served, and continue to serve, are duly honoured. Their sacrifices deserve to be matched by justice at home.
Stephen Burns
Veteran
The Parachute Regiment
Posted by Stephen Burns on 07 July 2025
My absolute respect and gratitude to you and all your fellow members of the armed forces.
I am deeply honoured that we are fellow campaigners in the fight for leasehold justice.
I am deeply honoured that we are fellow campaigners in the fight for leasehold justice.
Posted by Michael Epstein on 07 July 2025
Quintain Development Wembley NOW FREE of Firstport
Breaking news - Firstport have been kicked out of several large blocks near the Wembley Stadium. MLM takeover as of 19 August 2025. MLM are to release a press release once agreed with Quintain which will reveal full details of the blocks.
I met residents of Forum House back in 2019, desperate for change. Their block was in a shocking state. Its a real shame it took so long for Quintain to act.
I met residents of Forum House back in 2019, desperate for change. Their block was in a shocking state. Its a real shame it took so long for Quintain to act.
Posted by Freeholder in NW London on 04 July 2025
Freeholder in NW London.
Whilst greeting the news with much cheer and not wishing to be critical of you in any way, your post welcome as it is totally underplays the catastrophe the loss of this management contract is for Firstport. For those unfamiliar with the Wembley development(as Arsenal supporters would have been last season) this development is massive. It is akin to a small city, with several huge tower blocks, shopping and community areas. When being awarded the contract by Quintain who for their own purposes were looking for a really cheap quote to manage their development it was the Jewel in the Firstport empire.
Who now would appoint Firstport after such a debacle?
Whilst greeting the news with much cheer and not wishing to be critical of you in any way, your post welcome as it is totally underplays the catastrophe the loss of this management contract is for Firstport. For those unfamiliar with the Wembley development(as Arsenal supporters would have been last season) this development is massive. It is akin to a small city, with several huge tower blocks, shopping and community areas. When being awarded the contract by Quintain who for their own purposes were looking for a really cheap quote to manage their development it was the Jewel in the Firstport empire.
Who now would appoint Firstport after such a debacle?
Posted by The Editor on 04 July 2025
Dear Mr Editor,
What great news, you must be very happy
What great news, you must be very happy
Posted by RUTH on 04 July 2025
Mixed feelings really? Of course it is fantastic news for both Wembley residents and all that want to see the demise of the crooked Firstport, but frustrated knowing the huge effort to bring this about by freeholder in NW London despite the total lack of support from his local MP Barry Gardiner and a refusal to help from LKP.
Posted by The Editor on 04 July 2025
Dear Editor,
Hearty congratulations to Freeholder in NW London for that astonishing and very welcome news.
Why would his MP and LKP not assist in this incredible achievement?
Being a Northerner, I only have a limited understanding of the geography of Londinium (London) so viewed that area on another app. The estate is vast and the financial loss to firstport will be significant in my humble opinion.
Hearty congratulations to Freeholder in NW London for that astonishing and very welcome news.
Why would his MP and LKP not assist in this incredible achievement?
Being a Northerner, I only have a limited understanding of the geography of Londinium (London) so viewed that area on another app. The estate is vast and the financial loss to firstport will be significant in my humble opinion.
Posted by Stephen Burns on 04 July 2025
Indeed the estate is vast.
It could well be that Firstport have lost the management contract for up to 3,600 units, which is a massive blow to them. Some of those units are in the rental sector,a market that Firstport are particularly keen to expand into as their traditional markets are being denied to them by fewer developer/freeholder appointments and of course the number of RTM's against them.
Remember they have been cheating residents for many a year by double charging, charging for work not done and charging for items not allowed under the terms of the lease.
As for Barry Gardiner, initially he had been very helpful often castigating Firstport in parliament.
It seems he went to "silent running" after a campaigner was heavily critical of a tribunal judge who by sheer coincidence was a major donor to the Labour party.
As for LKP not helping, this was possibly due to Freeholder in NW London giving his support to this site and Freeholder in NW London's friendship with the late great Chas. One should never underestimate Sebastian O'Kelly's ability to sulk if he doesn't get his own way!
It could well be that Firstport have lost the management contract for up to 3,600 units, which is a massive blow to them. Some of those units are in the rental sector,a market that Firstport are particularly keen to expand into as their traditional markets are being denied to them by fewer developer/freeholder appointments and of course the number of RTM's against them.
Remember they have been cheating residents for many a year by double charging, charging for work not done and charging for items not allowed under the terms of the lease.
As for Barry Gardiner, initially he had been very helpful often castigating Firstport in parliament.
It seems he went to "silent running" after a campaigner was heavily critical of a tribunal judge who by sheer coincidence was a major donor to the Labour party.
As for LKP not helping, this was possibly due to Freeholder in NW London giving his support to this site and Freeholder in NW London's friendship with the late great Chas. One should never underestimate Sebastian O'Kelly's ability to sulk if he doesn't get his own way!
Posted by The Editor on 04 July 2025
Dear Editor,
I owe a great deal to the late great Chas Willis, he was a remarkable man who took me under his wing and taught me about the scourge of Fleecehold and what to do about it.
I am proud to be a Campaigner and demand the abolition of this "Feudal" system of tenure. No more consultations are required, action is!!!
Commonhold must be introduced before the end of this Government's term in office.
I owe a great deal to the late great Chas Willis, he was a remarkable man who took me under his wing and taught me about the scourge of Fleecehold and what to do about it.
I am proud to be a Campaigner and demand the abolition of this "Feudal" system of tenure. No more consultations are required, action is!!!
Commonhold must be introduced before the end of this Government's term in office.
Posted by Stephen Burns on 04 July 2025
Chas did the same for me. We spoke every day on the phone and I had the great pleasure of meeting him on several occasions. A true friend to me indeed!
He taught me to keep going no matter what the odds and always campaign with integrity and never sacrifice principles to obtain our goals. Ironically one of our biggest fights was not with Firstport but with LKP who were trying to kill Select Property Management at birth when bidding for their first management contract up against an LKP accredited agent. Chas and I stood firm and gave Select our support and took a lot of flak as a result. Thankfully we won and now Select has taken around 30 developments away from Firstport.
He taught me to keep going no matter what the odds and always campaign with integrity and never sacrifice principles to obtain our goals. Ironically one of our biggest fights was not with Firstport but with LKP who were trying to kill Select Property Management at birth when bidding for their first management contract up against an LKP accredited agent. Chas and I stood firm and gave Select our support and took a lot of flak as a result. Thankfully we won and now Select has taken around 30 developments away from Firstport.
Posted by Michael Epstein on 05 July 2025
NW Freeholder.Respect!
Barry Gardiner MP should be ashamed of himself. LKP is what it is and seems to favour freeholders and politicians .I mean, 3 of its trustees were awarded a OBE for services to? Don’t laugh! Keep going. Dont let the 🤬🤬🤬get you down!
Incidentally I am closely watching the events at a large block ‘ Chelsea Bridge Wharf which recently achieved RTM ..An LKP accredited company URANG which owns WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD has become the MA. I can confirm that WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD took the interest earned on our blocks service charges, the accounts are being re-cast because of anomalies,They allowed the directors of the shared freehold company to breach the lease and much much more. One of f the directors of Westbury Residential Ltd is being investigated by RICS. Fingers crossed they are expelled. Lets see…Years of litigation ahead. I advise leaseholders considering RTM to stay clear away from LKP accredited MA’s
Barry Gardiner MP should be ashamed of himself. LKP is what it is and seems to favour freeholders and politicians .I mean, 3 of its trustees were awarded a OBE for services to? Don’t laugh! Keep going. Dont let the 🤬🤬🤬get you down!
Incidentally I am closely watching the events at a large block ‘ Chelsea Bridge Wharf which recently achieved RTM ..An LKP accredited company URANG which owns WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD has become the MA. I can confirm that WESTBURY RESIDENTIAL LTD took the interest earned on our blocks service charges, the accounts are being re-cast because of anomalies,They allowed the directors of the shared freehold company to breach the lease and much much more. One of f the directors of Westbury Residential Ltd is being investigated by RICS. Fingers crossed they are expelled. Lets see…Years of litigation ahead. I advise leaseholders considering RTM to stay clear away from LKP accredited MA’s
Posted by Kim on 06 July 2025
There have been some 16641 posts and replies on this page. To view older ones search here.
This only searches posts, not replies.
The latest battle involves work that Firstport claim is needed for the roof.
Firstport informed residents that the cost of the roof work would be £20,000.
Outraged by the cost residents obtained a quote from a trusted local roofer for £2,000 not the £20,000 wanted by Fitrstport, so only a decimal point in difference!