Freeholder advice...

[Dee Woffaz]

I have decided to replace(and not before time i might add) the wooden windows in my flat to PVC like every other flat owner has done in my 1970s built small develipment. I intend them to be identical to the others and have had quotes etc. I was made aware that i had to let the Management company know about my decision. I did this and was told that to do so i would have to pay the freeholder ?30 for administration costs & apply for a licence(which will probably cost more again) to have the windows replaced with a detailed plan. Ive never heard of the freeholder, they have never been present at management meetings.

Now ?30+ further possible fees isnt a huge amount of money in the grand scheme of things. However im damn sure the freeholders have never seen the building and would have no idea who had wooden windows or PVC windows. I am quite tempted to just go ahead & replace as i am a little loath to pay into the freeholders money making scam.

Has anyone any experience of this and any possible legal implications?