Ashford estate residents complain of billing issues

Holly Reeves (right) was billed for a period that she did not live on the estate

Residents of a privately managed estate have complained of being issued bills for periods they did not live there, and being charged without prior notice.

Jason Fong, who lives on the Finberry Estate in Ashford, Kent, said he received a surprise maintenance bill.

Despite it being his first bill "in a long time", the charge of nearly £2,000 was marked as a final reminder.

The estate's management company said owners were told about how and why it demanded service charges in this way.

Mr Fong explained that although he agreed and started a payment plan with management company HML, a debt collector was contracted and he received a county court judgement claim form.

"We have now been bullied into, or scared into, having to pay an extra £2,000 for legal fees," he added.

Ruth Hickman-Leak received a bill for services from before she moved in.

She said: "I'm just annoyed because surely they must have records."

Jason Fong said he had been "bullied" into having to pay extra legal fees

Holly Reeves, who was also billed for a period she did not live on the estate, said: "It's felt annoying and frustrating."

Paul Barlett, who represents the estate on Ashford Borough Council, said: "It's quite appalling the way that they've been dealt with."

He said the council was exploring legal routes to help.

Mr Barlett said: "It's allowing things to accumulate without explanation [which] is really completely unacceptable."

"This big blip needs to be sorted out."

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