Freeholder Dispute – Urgent advice needed after demands?

Hello everyone, I’m facing a serious issue with my Freeholder situation and would really appreciate some guidance.

Background: I purchased my leasehold flat in 2001. The block has 8 flats in total. I am the only leaseholder – the other 7 owners bought the freehold together in 2007.

In 2016, I extended my lease.

Service Charges & Maintenance: Up until 2016, I paid service charges regularly.

After that, the freeholders kicked out the management company and: No maintenance was carried out. No grass cutting, no cleaning, no communal lighting. No building insurance was in place.

As a result, the building fell into disrepair, and I lost rental income because the communal areas were so poorly kept.

Sudden Demand & Debt Collection: Out of the blue, the freeholders recently appointed a rogue management company. Despite knowing I don’t live at the property (it’s rented), they sent all correspondence to the tenanted address, not my email.

They issued a demand for: £5,000 service charge, £500 reserve fund.

When I didn’t respond (because I never received the letters), they passed it to a debt collection company.

The debt collectors then emailed me (so they did have my correct contact details!) with a Pre-Action Protocol demand for: £5,500 (service + reserve), £360 late payment charges and £432 debt collection fees.

My Response: I immediately replied, contesting the charges and requesting Invoices, Accounts, Breakdown of costs and Receipts for works done.

The debt company responded, saying the matter had been referred back to their client, and my file was temporarily on hold.

Just an hour later, the management company emailed me directly: They removed the £432 instruction fee. But still demanded £5,000 service charges + £500 reserve fund + £360 late fees. They completely ignored my request for documentation and a breakdown of charges.

Current Situation: I visited the property myself. Nothing has been done. The communal areas are exactly the same – no works, no improvements, no insurance evidence. I have taken photos as proof.

My Concern: This is the only property I own. It feels like they are trying to make it unaffordable for me to keep the flat, possibly to force me out.

Questions: Has anyone dealt with a similar situation?

What are my rights if they refuse to provide a breakdown or evidence of works?

Can they enforce these charges without proper documentation?

Should I take this to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Jaz