PMMS Ltd is a London-based residential block management company serving freeholders, RMCs (Residents Management Companies), RTMs and developers. They manage up to 140 blocks and provide a full block-management service including service charge accounting, building maintenance and repairs, company secretarial duties, insurance, property transfers and other leasehold management services
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This case study explores how PMMS improved the speed and accuracy of their year end accounts by using the SCOAP Accountant Service through Blocks Online. It outlines the challenges of their previous manual process, why they chose to adopt the service, and the results they have seen so far, including significant time savings and smoother communication across teams.
Case Study Overview
PMMS is a growing block management company overseeing up to 140 blocks. The team wanted to reduce the manual workload involved in preparing year-end accounts. By adopting the SCOAP Accountant Service through Blocks Online, they have transformed a lengthy, multi-step process into a smooth, time saving system.
The Challenge
Previously, PMMS relied on a manual workflow that involved collating data from Blocks Online into a financial pack, attaching invoices and bank statements, and sending everything to external accountants via WeTransfer. Joelle Palmer, who manages accounts at PMMS, explained that “it would usually take three to four months before we got the drafts back,” with the full process from start to filing taking around five months.
These long lead times also caused issues with Section 20B compliance. “If it goes beyond the timeframe, we would have to issue Section 20B letters to leaseholders, which we wouldn’t want and that would lead to extra questions and unnecessary worry” The process was time-heavy for a small team and risked further delays if directors or accountants needed additional information.
The Solution
Switching to SCOAP Accountant simplified everything. Because the service can access all financial information directly through Blocks Online, PMMS no longer needs to prepare and send manual packs. “At first, I thought I’d still need to send everything, but all they asked for were a few bank statements, it was that easy.”
The turnaround time improved significantly, with draft accounts typically received within a month. Communication was described as “professional and clear,” with any small adjustments resolved quickly by email.
The Outcome
The difference has been huge. PMMS’s June year-end accounts were signed and filed by September, something that previously would have taken much longer. “The fact that I can just press a button and a month later I’ve got the accounts is amazing.”
The streamlined system has saved significant time, reduced admin, and improved accuracy. “It’s smooth, it’s efficient, and it just works.” Encouraged by the results, PMMS now plans to use the service for more complex blocks with multiple schedules.
By introducing the SCOAP Accountant Service, PMMS has reduced a five-month manual process to around one month, improved communication with accountants, and simplified compliance. “Would i advise other Block Management company’s to use the service? Yes, 100%, it’s a real time-saver.”