What Does a Good Building Managing Agent Look Like to a Developer?
At POD Management, we know what makes a successful building managing agent and developer relationship because we have spent years in the field building these partnerships and achieving amazing results for our clients first-hand.
Contrary to what many believe, managing a development isn’t just about keeping a building looking aesthetically pleasing, it’s about adding real value to people’s homes, ensuring connection and communication, seamless processes and maintaining the highest overall standards that enhance both the resident experience and the developer’s reputation.
This week, our team breaks down what an exceptional management agent looks like from a developer’s perspective and the processes that warrant this, based on our own experiences.
Communication and Transparency
We know how important complete transparency is. That means clear, concise reporting, regular updates, and no nasty surprises when it comes to costs or issues on site. A good building managing agent operates as an extension of the developer’s team. Always available, always honest, and always working in the best interests of the development and the residents.
Time and time again we’ve heard from developers who have had poor experiences and were constantly chasing information and not receiving updates. A credible managing agent will ensure that never happens and that developers remain consistently informed.
At POD, we go the extra mile by providing real-time access to key data and site updates. Whether it's void modelling, ongoing maintenance work, or resident feedback, our developers are always up to date and have complete transparency on all updates.
Strong Industry Relationships
A managing agent is only as good as their network. The best in the business have deep-rooted relationships with contractors, surveyors, legal experts, and industry bodies that make life easier for developers.
Our longstanding partnerships and accreditations mean we can negotiate bespoke needs, secure priority service, and call in the right specialists when needed. Whether it's a last-minute snagging issue, or essential maintenance work, having a network of trusted experts ensures everything runs smoothly every time. It’s this level of reliability that sets an exceptional building managing agent apart.
HBF Ratings - Understanding the Developer’s Priorities
The Home Builders Federation, popularly labelled ‘the voice of the industry’, is where residents can review their home builder through buyer surveys. Naturally, developers strive for those five-star reviews because they directly impact sales and reputation. A five-star rating can be the difference between a buyer choosing one development over another, and a good managing agent understands that they play a crucial role in this.
At POD, we know that happy homeowners mean better HBF ratings, and better ratings mean more successful developments. We work proactively to handle resident concerns swiftly, ensure high-quality estate management, and support developers in delivering on their customer service promises. With our 91% Happiness Rating, and our 4.3 star ‘Excellent’ rating on Trustpilot, we’re confident in our ability to deliver customer needs and are dedicated a helping hand in any queries or issues that may arise.
Efficient Project Management
The best managing agents don’t just react to issues, they prevent them from arising in the first place. Efficient project management is essential, especially when transitioning from build completion to full-scale block and estate management.
A well-organised managing agent will seamlessly integrate with a developer’s project team, ensuring a smooth transition from construction to occupancy. This includes:
Coordinating with contractors for final snagging and defect resolution.
Ensuring all compliance documentation is in place.
Setting up robust building management plans and PPM’s from day one.
Liaising with residents and addressing early-stage teething issues before they escalate.
At POD, we always take a proactive approach, ensuring developers don’t get bogged down in post-handover problems. With clear timelines, checklists, and a dedicated mobilisation team, we make sure the journey from completion to a thriving community is as smooth as possible.
Experience in Similar Projects
Would you trust a building managing agent with no track record in developments like yours? Probably not. A seasoned managing agent brings invaluable expertise from handling similar projects. Whether it’s build-to-rent, commercial development, high-rise apartment blocks, or large-scale housing estates, ensure you partner with a company who has evidential proof of their successes and challenges in each instance. Their experience means they’ve already solved the kinds of problems you’re likely to encounter, so you’re never left guessing.
At POD, we pride ourselves on our diverse portfolio, meaning we come equipped with tried-and-tested solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of each development. Our incredible teams deliver results based on years of real, proven experience.
Resident Engagement - More Than Just a Point of Contact
A managing agent who actively engages with residents, rather than just responding when something goes wrong, makes a world of difference. After contracts are exchanged, we know that it’s our job to foster a sense of community within every development we manage. In fact, it’s one of the most integral parts of the property management puzzle, yet it’s often overlooked.
At POD, we go above and beyond to hold regular resident meetings, open clear communication channels, and across all our developments, we employ dedicated personnel that genuinely care about making the development a great place to live. We want residents to feel seen, heard and importantly, comfortable in their homes! Happy and informed residents mean that the volume of preventable issues are reduced and this enhances the overall living experience and value of the development.
Cost Management
Service charges can be a major pain point if they’re not managed well. A good building managing agent should work alongside a developer to ensure residents money is spent wisely and delivering excellent service without unnecessary costs.
At POD, we operate with full financial transparency. We always say that the earlier we are involved with a project, the quicker we can help you to set realistic budgets and ensure funds are used effectively. We will always provide clear reporting that stands up to scrutiny. No hidden fees, no cost cutting to make the budget look good - just smart, responsible management that protects both the developer’s reputation and the homeowner’s wallet.
Prioritising Health and Safety
A robust health and safety framework are paramount for developers seeking a reliable building managing agent. At POD, our commitment to health and safety is at the heart of all that we do and is demonstrated through continuous improvement of our management systems, ensuring the well-being of residents, employees, contractors, and the public.
We conduct regular inspections and maintenance to uphold the highest safety standards, ensuring full compliance with all relevant regulations. In fact, we hold a Five Star grading in British Safety Council Occupational Health and Safety Audit, conducted by the British Safety Council. By fostering a culture of safety and awareness, we not only protect lives and property but also enhance the value and reputation of the developments we manage, aligning with developers' expectations for excellence and reliability. For more information on our commitment to health and safety standards, click here.
Why Developers Choose POD Management
Our award-winning approach is built on communication, strong relationships, expert project management, and a genuine commitment to excellence. When you choose POD, you get a partner who understands your priorities, enhances your reputation, and ensures your developments thrive. Through redefining property management and raising the bar, we aim to make a last impact.
If you’re a developer looking for a property management company to assist in the smooth running of your properties this year, we’d love to help you today:
Fill out our business enquiry form
Email us at relationships@podmanagement.co.uk
Call us on 0333 577 6656
We look forward to hearing from you!