Constitution of Association

Constitution of the Vista Battersea Residents Association

1. Name

The name of the Association shall be Vista Battersea Residents Association (“the Association”).

2. Objectives

The objectives of the Association are:

To represent the collective interest of residents in discussion with landlords, managing agents, local authorities, and service providers.
To act as a unified voice on issues affecting the estate, including maintenance, safety, communal facilities.
To monitor and advocate for high standards in cleaning, repairs, landscaping, and other contracted services.
To liaise with the managing agent or landlord regarding service charges, planned works, and long-term maintenance.
To ensure transparency in decision-making and financial matters affecting the estate.
To scrutinise service charges and financial statements provided by the managing agent or landlord.
To ensure value for money in services and advocate for cost-effective solutions.
To work with relevant authorities and stakeholders to improve safety, security, and emergency preparedness across the estate.
To seek formal recognition under relevant housing legislation where appropriate.
To advocate for residents’ rights under tenancy, leasehold, and housing law.
To improve communication between residents and management through regular updates, meetings, and feedback channels.
To foster a sense of community and neighbourliness through events, social activities and shared initiatives.
To promote inclusion and respect among residents of all backgrounds.
Improve safety, security, and emergency preparedness.
Promote environmentally sustainable practices.
Provide a structured channel for feedback and suggestions.

3. Membership

3.1 Membership is open to all long term (virtual freehold) leaseholders within the Vista Battersea premises.
3.2 Each property owner is entitled to one membership per property owned.
3.3 Membership is voluntary.
3.4 Members must register with the Association and provide proof of ownership.
3.5 Membership information will be kept confidential in accordance with the Association’s Privacy Policy.

4. Management Committee

4.1 The Association shall be managed by a Committee elected from among the members.
4.2 The Committee shall consist of:

Chairperson
Secretary
Treasurer
Up to 2 additional members (as agreed by the AGM)

4.3 Committee members shall serve on a voluntary basis.
4.4 The Committee shall be responsible for:

Implementing the objectives of the Association
Managing finances responsibly
Organising meetings and keeping members informed
Ensuring fair and transparent decision-making

5. General Meetings

5.1 An Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held once every year.
5.2 Members will receive at least 14 days’ notice of the AGM.
5.3 The AGM will:

Receive reports from the Committee
Elect or re-elect Committee members
Approve the Association’s accounts and policies
Consider motions raised by members

5.4 Special General Meetings (SGMs) may be called by the Committee or upon written request from at least 25% of members.

6. Decision Making

6.1 Decisions at meetings shall be made by a majority vote of members present.
6.2 Each property ownership entitles the owner(s) to one vote.
6.3 In the event of a tie, the Chairperson shall have a casting vote.

7. Finance

7.1 The Association is a non-profit organisation.
7.2 Any funds raised or collected shall be used only to further the objectives of the Association.
7.3 The Treasurer will maintain accurate accounts, which will be presented annually at the AGM.
7.4 The Association may open a bank account in its name, requiring at least two authorised signatories.

8. Code of Conduct

8.1 All members shall treat each other with respect.
8.2 The Association shall remain non-political and non-discriminatory.
8.3 Disputes will be handled fairly by the Committee.

9. Amendments

This Constitution may be amended at a General Meeting by a two-thirds majority of members present, provided that written notice of the proposed amendment is given at least 14 days in advance.

10. Dissolution

10.1 The Association may be dissolved by a two-thirds majority vote of members at a General Meeting.
10.2 Any assets remaining after debts are paid shall be donated to a local charity or community cause chosen by the members.