TemplePM questions James Tarr, from Andrews Leasehold Management

This month we've put James Tarr, of Andrews Leasehold Management in our hot seat and enjoyed finding out more behind the Head of Leasehold Management.

How long have you worked in the Block Management Industry?

18 years

How did you come to work in the Block Management Industry?

I kind of fell into it having worked within lettings and social housing.

What's the most challenging aspect of your job?

Managing expectations of clients especially when dealing with water leaks and emergency works. 

What would be your one piece of advice to someone starting out in the Block industry?

It’s more of a customer service role, the actual property management is sometimes secondary. 

What is the biggest change you see coming in the property industry?

Regulation will be great for the industry and something that Andrews Property Group welcome

What makes a good Block Manager?

The ability to be a surveyor, accountant, mediator, traffic warden, builder and chairperson all at the same time when holding a residents meeting/ AGM. 

What would be your ideal holiday destination?

Back to Iceland, been 3 times and love the place

What do you do in your spare time?

Lots of music gigs and festivals. 

If you were given a million pounds right now, what would be the first thing you would buy?

Buy a holiday home in Cornwall

Tell us about your worst job interview

When I worked for a local authority and had been doing the job for 6 months very well but I didn’t hit their points score in the interview so wasn’t offered the permanent role. They did however, keep me on as a temp doing the same job for a further 6 months. I left and went into the Private Sector.