Absolute Property Management Latest News

You can now find us on Social Media

At Absolute, we recognise the importance of showcasing our services, industry knowledge, experience and expertise. We want to raise the game on sharing information and dispel misconceptions about property management, Leasehold and service charges.

In today's digital age, that means being active and present on various social media platforms. Social media provides us a unique opportunity to share information with leaseholders and residents through engaging and informative content.

The response so far has been positive, with many expressing appreciation for the company's approach to communication.

Follow Absolute on:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/absolute.pm.solutions/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/absolute.pm.solutions/

If Social Media’s not your thing, sign up at the bottom of the page to receive our newsletters direct to your email.

View Gallery

Once again, we are using the latest drone technology to carry out high level aerial surveys of building to detect any potential issues or defects on high level areas of buildings.
With the expert flying skills of Drone Pilot “Dan Hilliar” he was able to manoeuvre the drone into awkward areas whilst avoiding the unwanted attention of the local bird population yet still provide clear and precise video footage of the condition of the buildings.

When we announced we would be installing Rain Water Butts on various sites for caretakers and gardeners to water the plants, we literally became the butt of resident’s jokes, with the recent draught conditions and hose pipe bans our efforts at water conservation have paid off.

View Gallery

Having recently taken over the management of a local site, we were aware several mature tree’s were in poor condition.

An Arborist survey was commissioned and our worst fears confirmed, the trees were suffering from a condition called “Ash Dieback”, a lethal disease that affects Ash tree’s and represents a substantial threat both to the UK’s forests and to amenity trees growing in parks and gardens. It was first detected in the UK in 2012 and is now very widespread and it is estimated we will eventually lose around 80% of ash trees in the UK.
Plans were put into place to fell the diseased trees however the situation was further complicated by the fact the trees are in a local conservation area and protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s), therefore consent from the various departments was required before any tree maintenance could take place.

Thankfully with everything in place including professional tree surgeons and all health and safety documentation the tree felling was carried out with minimal disruption to the residents, although a few squirrels were not overly impressed with the alterations.

As part of the condition of the consent to remove the trees, 10 native species of trees must be planted in their place, the Arborist has provided further advise on replacement trees that are suitable for the areas and hardy to the local squirrel population, and planting of the new sapling has been completed.

View Gallery

Over the last few years there have been an increase in residents taking up cycling to keep fit and reduce their carbon foot print. Whilst many have good intentions not all keep up their new found faith, this usually results in their once “pride and joy” becoming unloved, abandoned and left to gather dust in the bike stores.

As a result of several bike stores becoming full to capacity Absolute was tasked with clearing the abandoned cycles, instead of sending to landfill or for scrap Absolute looked at alternative options for disposal and contacted a local cycling charity “Pedal Power” who were more than happy to receive the dusty donations.

Wheels were set in motion, all residents were notified of the scheme, then the big clearance commenced. Over 40 dusty and rusty bikes were removed and donated to Pedal Power whose team of volunteers and staff commenced refurbishment, so far 9 of the refurbished bikes had been sold raising over £850.00 for the charity.

Once again, Absolute have raised the bar with innovative ideas, due to the success of this scheme Absolute have stepped up another gear and are implementing this across a number of other sites under their management.

For more information on Pedal Power or to purchase a recycled cycle please search for:

www.cardiffpedalpower.org
www.facebook.com/pedalpowercardiff

Absolute Property Management Solutions Ltd are extremely proud to be engaged as the new managing agents for Charter Court Business Park.
Charter Court Business Park located on the Swansea Enterprise Park comprises 7 commercial premises including the renown “Enzyme Research Laboratories”.
Absolute is working closely with the clients to improve Charter Court.

View Gallery

With the hospitality sector now back up and running again and the sun shining, there’s no better time to take a trip to The Jennings at Porthcawl’s harbourside.

Like many cafes and restaurants, social distancing measures and reduced capacity has been a hurdle for all from the hospitality sector to overcome. To help bring customers back to The Jennings, John Poppleton Managing Director of Absolute Property Management Solutions entered into negotiations with Porthcawl Harbour Authority and Bridgend County Borough Council for a licence to extend the sea front seating area for the Harbour Bar & Kitchen, Double Zero Pizza and Coffi Co during the summer and autumn period.

With the licence now granted, seating supplied and installed courtesy of the Harbour Bar & Kitchen, the café and restaurants are now ready to welcome customers back with their newly extended outside seating area with room for an additional 100+ customers. If successful, there is scope for the licence to become an annual offering where customers can enjoy the delicious food and spectacular views time and time again.

With enhanced cleaning and sanitising procedures in place, there should be nothing stopping you taking a trip to The Jennings. Whether you are after a quick coffee break, an authentic stone baked pizza or deluxe British food and classic cocktails, The Jennings is serving up something special for you. If this offering wasn’t enough, all drinks and dishes are served with a slice of breath-taking views across the Bristol Channel, Rest Bay and the Porthcawl Lighthouse. After months of lockdown, where better than The Jennings to relax and enjoy a taste of normality.

View Gallery

Absolute Property Management Solutions have once again been taking advantage of lockdown and the advice to work from home by giving Avon House’s reception a brand new look! Absolute’s Director, Loraine Poppleton, saw the current situation as a prime time to bring in local tradesmen to jazz up the reception without causing any disruption to the businesses who call Avon House home.

The bold and contemporary geometric wallpaper welcomes you with nothing short of a “wow”. Couple this with matching bucket chairs, indoor rockery feature, and artisan coffee table, Loraine Poppleton’s design has transformed this tired looking reception into a warm and welcoming work environment.

The installation of a new sliding automatic door not only reduces the touch points for both staff and visitors, but also provides a sleek and modern entrance into Avon House. Following a Covid-19 risk assessment, an automatically dispensing hand sanitising station is available upon entry to ensure everyone feels safe and protected within the building.

Absolute look forward to welcoming back tenants, visitors, and potential new businesses into the new Avon House.

View Gallery

Windsor Arcade became a Grade II listed building in November 1990 to preserve and retain the original features of Penarth’s most significant 19th Century commercial building. While a lot of the country spent the lock-down period safely at home, Absolute's Property Manager for Windsor Arcade saw this as a rare opportunity to fully redecorate the arcade without any disturbance to pedestrians or the commercial traders.

Using only local tradesmen, the Arcade has been redecorated throughout with a full clean to the shop fronts, floor and the stunning Georgian glass atrium. With the re-beautification of the Arcade complete, it was time to ensure it was safe to open up to the public again. Working with the shop owners, a Covid-19 risk assessment was carried out with new measures implemented to aid social distancing. A one way system has been introduced throughout, shops have individual queuing areas, as well as the lofts entrances being cleared marked to ensure the residents also benefit from social distancing measures.

With restrictions easing and businesses able to operate again, we hope Windsor Arcade will continue to flourish and maintain itself as the hub of the local community.

View Gallery

Absolute are pleased to announce they have been instructed to take over the management of Edward England Wharf Apartments.

The former warehouses which stood at the head of West Bute Dock have Grade ii listed status. Some of the original buildings date back pre-1855 and were owned by the Edward England family who were major distributors of potatoes in South Wales.

In 2000 the Developer PJ Livesey converted the buildings into 50 luxury apartments.

View Gallery

Once again, we are using the latest in technology; in the aftermath of recent storms and high winds we engaged the services of KBPM Ltd to carry out a high level and roof top survey of a building to check for possible damage.

The drone is equipped with a high definition zoom camera providing photographic and video imagery negating the need for costly high-level mobile access equipment (Cherry Picker).

The survey and subsequent report with still and video imagery will provide a time-line condition of the roof to satisfy the requirements of the Buildings Insurance policy to show we are complying with the terms and conditions of the policy to inspect the flat roof annually.

With the expert flying skills of a KBPM’s Civil Aviation Authority (CCA) registered pilot the survey was completed successfully and on schedule.

Continuing to support good causes, Absolute Directors took part in the 5th Porthcawl RNLI Walk to raise funds for a well-deserved charity.

Waters Edge is a luxury apartment complex overlooking The Knap beach in Barry.

The development was built in 2006, it was designed so all the apartments would have breathtaking sea views over the local coastline.

Following a successful “Right to Manage” process by the leaseholders of Waters Edge, Absolute are pleased to announce they have been engaged to provide their management services. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with this site.

View Gallery

For over 20 years a historic building in Cardiff Bay was left to decay and became the target of vandals.

Now this Grade II listed Victorian train station, originally designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and built in 1840, has been tastefully restored and boasts 23 short-term office units with a cafe and cocktail bar constructed out of shipping containers sitting next to the building.

Aptly renamed “Platform” the restoration was as a result of a joint venture between Developer Simon Baston of Loft-Co and Cardiff City Council.

Absolute Property Management Solutions Ltd has been instructed to provide their management services to ensure the building is maintained.

We are currently launching a new feature to our management service called “MyBlockman”; this feature creates a secure log-in portal area for each individual leaseholder, providing we have a leaseholders valid e-mail address leaseholders will be able to log on and

• View announcements of any important issues affecting the development;
• View their service charge accounts and service charge history;
• Download Account Demands & Reminders;
• Download important documents such as Audited Accounts, Budgets, Leaseholders Guides and House Rules etc;

Safety is paramount, following on from tragedies such as Grenfell, fire safety has never been more necessary.

At Absolute, in addition to Fire Risk Assessments we have started carrying out thermographic inspections on our managed properties, with the aim of highlighting potential risks, before they occur using the latest state of the art, infra-red technology.

Our reports then allow us to further investigate potential hazards, long before they become a risk.

This not only minimises the risk but also the cost in the long run.

Image shown highlights a Fuse Board with a fuse running hot. Our inspection was able to catch this before it became an issue and the fuse was replaced minimising cost and disruption to the occupiers.

The Grand Apartments, another successful project for Absolute has now been completed, redecoration of the front façade of this Grade ii listed building.

The project included removal of Buddleia growth from the high-level areas and repairs to the stone façade before repairs and redecoration of the painted elements of the façade could be carried out.

Another successful project carried out with the expertise of the Absolute team.

View Gallery

Guildhall Tavern has undergone a transformation with the external redecoration of the façade of this Grade II listed building.

This project provided Absolute with many complex issues to deal with, firstly the building is Grade ii listed, therefore before any works could be carried out the conservation officer had to be advised of our intentions and agree with the scope of works.

Being located in the city centre in a partially pedestrianised area, access restriction for contractor’s vehicle’s and the safety of the public were paramount.

Due to the costs of the project “Section 20” consultation process was also entered into with the Leaseholders.

Once again with careful planning this project was completed on time and to the satisfaction of our clients.

View Gallery

Every Xmas the berth holders at Porthcawl Marina decorate their boats with xmas lights for the festive period. The Harbour Master organises a competition for the best lit up boat, this year Absolute (managing agents for the Jennings Building) were invited to judge the competition and provided the prizes.

Congratulation to the winning boats and all who participated in the competition.

View Gallery

Just in time for the winter weather the external redecoration of Hunter Lofts Cardiff has been completed. This grade ii listed former Victorian industrial warehouse has undergone a facelift.
With careful planning and the professionalism of Absolute approved contractors the project was completed on schedule and without any fuss.

View Gallery

Absolute continues to strive to supply the best possible service to their clients and residents of sites under their management.

Absolute has worked closely with Hyperoptic (www.hyperoptic.com), a market leader in the supply and installation of full fibre superfast broadband, at Castle Buildings Swansea. From the initial survey stages to the installation of their fibre optic network cabling, the project flowed seamlessly without any inconvenience or disruption. Over 35 businesses and over 100 apartments now have access to this amazing service.

Absolute continues to grow in the commercial property management market, with the latest instruction C12.

Currently undergoing a complete refurbishment C12 is currently being transformed into a serviced office complex boasting luxury serviced office suites.

View Gallery

Absolute are employing the latest in technology, “Surveying by Drones” we have recently engaged the specialist services of a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) registered Drone Pilot to carry out roof top and high-level facade surveys of several buildings.

This is proving to be a cost-effective way of viewing high level areas, the drone camera provides high definition detailed photographic and video imagery negating the need for costly high-level access equipment such as “Cherry Pickers” or “Scaffolding” to carry out the initial inspection.

From the detailed video footage provided, if defects are found we are able to plan the remedial repairs more effectively.

Absolute growth into the commercial property management sector continues, with the instruction to provide professional management services for Avon House, a multi-let commercial office located in the heart of Penarth.

As a result of Leaseholders becoming increasing concerned regarding the management of their complex they opted to carry pursue a “Right to Manage” process. With the engagement of Darwin Gray Solicitors property specialists and Absolute’s property team a successful RTM was achieved.

Once again, Absolute have now secured another management instruction.

View Gallery

The latest addition to the Absolute management portfolio, The Wellington; In 2017 the conversion of the original two storey building commenced, with the addition of two further floors of luxury city living apartments, this conversion now redefines the skyline of this area.

Newly refurbished office space has been created across the first floor offering a 24 hour a day, high tech, flexible work space providing a one stop shop in terms of cost and commitment for a work environment.

Additionally, 44 one and two-bedroom apartments, have been created across the footprint of the existing building on newly formed 2nd and 3rd floors. The new apartment have been built in response to a shortage in the housing market and have been designed to be ‘future proof’ with smart app technology installed as standard to control heating, lighting and sound systems.

Absolute’s move into the management of commercial developments continues with the latest instruction Columbus Walk.

Columbus Walk is a modern purpose-built office complex located on edge of the city centre.

We are pleased to announce Absolute Property Management Solutions Ltd have been instructed to provide our management services for the “Former Grand Hotel” Cardiff; originally built as a hotel in 1886 on the former quayside and harbour where Westgate Street now stands. In 1908 the Grand was severely damaged by fire, after refurbishment the Grand continued to operate as a hotel for many years.

In 2000 the Grand was later converted to apartments for city living plus a mixture of restaurants and bars. Due to its unique period façade the building has been granted Grade II listed status.

View Gallery

The Jennings building was constructed in 1832 by James Allen, the proprietor of a spelter works at Dyffryn. It was used to store coal and iron goods awaiting shipment from the Llynfi Valley. The buildings name however dates from 1911 when it was used by Jennings and Co, who were timber importers. In the 1920’s it formed part of the Cosy Corner site, which included the Cosy Corner cinema. During the Second World War, the warehouse became a base for RAF Air Sea Rescue Launch. In the 1990`s, after a long period of disuse, the building was used on a temporary basis as an indoor skating park.

Having laid derelict for many years a sympathetic conversion of this historically important Grade II Listed Building was completed by a local Penarth based company Loft Co. during 2016/2017. The development now offers a variety of new uses. It has delivered opportunities for local restaurateurs and entrepreneurs to start or develop their businesses in a prime location, and provides 14 beautiful live/work residential units to the first floor.

Once again, our specialist management services were called upon, working with the developer we have provided and implement a service charge funded maintenance and management package to ensure the Jennings will be maintained to a high standard for future generations.
The regeneration of this building now houses 3 restaurants with views over the harbour and 14 magnificent gallery style live/work units also with amazing views.

The Jennings conversion has received numerous awards;
RICS Awards 2018 - Winner in Building Conservation
RICS Awards 2018 - Shortlisted in Regeneration Category
LABC Bridgend Excellence Award 2018 - Winner for Best Partnership
LABC Bridgend Building Excellence Award 2018 - Winner in Best Small Commercial Building

View Gallery

We are pleased to announce Absolute Property Management Solutions Ltd have been instructed to provide management services for ABA Holdings latest development in Penarth, Offedge Offices.

Originally a Masonic Temple then the home of Penarth Royal British Legion for over 80 years the building has recently been converted providing a mixture of offices and retail units on the ground floor.

The Pump House, a former water pumping station for Barry Docks built in the 1880’s has now become the focal point of Barry’s waterfront re-development. Planning consent was granted to convert this iconic Grade II listed building into a café and restaurant with an outdoor piazza area plus a 24-hour fitness studio and gym on the ground floor, the upper floors have been transformed into inspirational living and working spaces.

Working closely with the developers DS Properties Ltd our specialist management team are now providing a service charge funded maintenance and management service to ensure the Pump House is maintained to a high standard for the future.
Following the re-development, the Pump House has received numerous awards;

LABC Cymru All Wales Building Excellence Award 2016
Winner for Best Change of Use or Conversion
LABC Cymru South Wales Building Excellence Award 2016
Winner for Best Conversion to Residential
RSAW Welsh Architecture Awards 2016
Shortlisted Project

Absolute are proud to be a sponsor of Penarth's annual "Music in the Park" Festival
Organised by Friends of Belle Vue Park the festival takes place on 5th July, local bands and singers will perform from 2.00pm onwards.

Another successful project completed by Absolute:
Penarth’s Windsor Arcade, a Grade II Listed Victorian shopping arcade located in the heart of Penarth. Extensive refurbishment of the glass atrium has now been completed by Penarth based Delta Construction. Stringent safety measures allowed the arcade traders to remain open for business whilst the refurbishment works were being carried out.

https://penarthnews.wordpress.com/2015/05/14/the-sun-streams-back-into-penarths-windsor-arcade/

Coed-y-Lan a former grammar school constructed in the 1800’s and closed in 2005. The Former school with listed building status soon fell in to disrepair due to lack of maintenance and vandalism.

Simon Baston a Penarth based developer has given the building a new lease of life by converting the former school into modern contemporary apartments and town houses, boasting a gymnasium and outdoor recreational areas.

Working closely with the developer we are providing a management service for the proud new owners of these apartments.

We are extremely pleased and proud to announce that due to the continued growth of Absolute we have relocated to our new, larger office within Avon House.

The Horizon development is the latest residential development benefiting from the expert services of Absolute PMS Ltd.

The development located in the North of Cardiff comprises a mixture of Town House and a unique architectural designed Apartment complex.