Northern Group Arvostelua 14

I was interested in renting out a unit from Northern Group at Wellington House in Manchester, so I sent a web request to view Unit 16/17 Room 8 on the 23rd of April but never heard anything back. I then emailed a contact at Northern Group on the 6th of May who replied arranging for me to view the unit on the 13th of May. When I went to Wellington House on the 13th of May, I was shown Room 2 instead of Room 8 which I initially enquired about which was at a much higher rent. I sent an email later to the person from Northern Group who had shown me the incorrect unit, and she replied advising that it was a “misunderstanding” and if I still wanted to view Room 8. I replied to say I was still interested in viewing Room 8. I went to see Room 8 on the 21st of May and even though there was as strong smell of marijuana, I liked the room and asked if I could secure it. I was told the service charge was £36.53 per month even though it was (and still is) advertised on the website at £24.67 per month. Their website also claims that they have flexible tenancy terms so I asked for a 6 month break clause which was rejected. I asked for a 9 month break clause and again that was rejected having been told that it was a 12 month lease or nothing.
I would avoid renting from this company as they seem to operate in a very clandestine manner.

I rented an apartment in Flint Glass Wharf and underground parking space for 8 months whilst I waited on my new build apartment to complete. On the plus side, the staff that I dealt with were great, especially Sophia, thank you 🙏. In addition, the location is great, everything is a very easy walk to reach.

On the negative side, the apartment(308) was tired looking and needs updating with very poor insulation. It has an EPC of E and I had electricity bills of over £300 a month just heating the apartment to 19’. In addition, I’m registered disabled and there was only 1 parking space close to the lift which was regularly occupied by different vehicles that didn’t have a displayed card. I complained more than 15 times to Northern Group about this and they responded by emailing the owner. However, people can ignore emails and they frequently did, there was a period of 1 week where I had to pay for another parking space because of someone’s inconsiderate behaviour, perhaps they would like my disability??
Overall, not the best experience, but thank you Sophia.

I would not recommend northern group, dealing with their office in Manchester has been horrendous!

Rude unhelpful staff, entering my apartment without my consent, constant miscommunication!

Avoid! there are plenty of other rental companies in Manchester City centre that offer a much better customer experience with better quality apartments!

Having to leave a review to even get someone to deal with me.

Going through end of tenancy and 11 days after move out, I was told of very minor works needed to be done. Absolutely fine.

However, they cannot provide me with a costs breakdown whatsoever, they won’t speak to me on the phone, They haven’t even booked the works in with a contractor as of yet. That’s probably why they can’t give me a costs breakdown🤷

I’m sure I’ll get a call first thing in the morning now that I have left a review. So disappointing. Why not give good service in the first place?

I have been living with this company for ~3 months with no complaints.

Irene is my property manager and I have received wonderful service, quick attention to any issues highlighted and the concierge is very helpful and friendly.

The shared spaces are well maintained, the location is fabulous and everyone is really nice. And you can have pets!

After some truly horrific rental experiences, I highly recommend this company.

I have had an extremely disappointing experience with Northern Group in relation to the management of Wellington House.

During this year alone, Northern Group has attempted to levy two separate charges that are not provided for in the lease. While the lease allows for a service charge increase once per year, capped at 20%, Northern Group first attempted to backdate a service charge increase without providing notice, which is not compliant with the lease terms. Subsequently, they attempted to charge over £600+ for a “service charge reconciliation”, again without prior notice and without this charge being specified in the lease.

In addition, I have experienced ongoing water leaks within my unit, caused by issues outside of my demised premises. The lease clearly states that these external areas are the landlord’s responsibility to maintain. Northern Group’s response was that they do not have sufficient funds to carry out the required repair works. This response is particularly concerning given that the company has recently acquired another building on Deansgate for an undisclosed sum.

As a result of the unresolved issues, I am no longer able to use parts of the premises to operate my business, yet I have not been offered any compensation or rent adjustment. This is especially troubling as my business is open to the general public, making this a health and safety concern. Communication from Northern Group has been consistently dismissive and unprofessional, rather than constructive or solution-focused.

Northern Group’s website states that they “would not rent out a property they themselves would not work in”. Based on my experience, this statement does not reflect the condition of Wellington House, which is poorly maintained and neglected. The courtyard area suffers from overflowing drains and pest issues, which further highlights the lack of adequate property management.

The building is occupied by many small businesses who have invested heavily in fitting out their units and are therefore placed in a difficult position when faced with management practices that appear to rely on tenants lacking the financial means to challenge them.

Based on my experience, I would strongly advise prospective tenants to review their lease carefully and proceed with caution before engaging with Northern Group.

Horrible experience with Northern group and their management. Super mentally exhausting experience we had recently with our move. Poor communication with landlord and the house the sold had all the problems in the world with horrible broken bed, bad mattress, dishwasher, fridge, washing machine, you name it and we had that problem in our one year stay. They started extorting money at some point with cleaning and extra charges. Would recommend don’t even breathe in the house sold by them because they might end up charging you for that too lol. Such petty and loser moves they have pulled on us. Would not recommend them at all. I repeat again do not go with them. #cheapmoves

Kieran was very patient with me as I transferred my tenancy. He got back to me very promptly and made sure all everyone was aware of the goings on. Thanks so much Kieran!

Tomas and the team at Northern Group helped me move into my new home and I couldn’t be happier with their service. Moving is a very stressful time but they kept in regular contact and kept assuring me that things would work when a few technical issues arose! Once we got over that hurdle it was a very smooth transition I’m very grateful!

I’ve really enjoyed living in a Northern Group apartment. The apartments themselves are stylish and in the best location, walking distance to the whole city. Great transport links and a stones throw from our favourite bars. The team are a dream, any issues we’ve had they have resolved really quickly and been super friendly. Can’t fault them and look forward to renewing for another year!

Style over substance
I'm sure they have great reviews from Landlords (since they make them a lot of money for not having to lift a finger), but the experience as a tenant is really disappointing.
Overpriced apartments that may have the wow factor at first glance but are highly impractical, badly designed, with ill thought-through storage solutions, grossly overpriced.
Having lived in both if you're moving to the Manchester area MCR Life are better in terms of value for money and practicality, so vote with your money and don't choose Northern Group.
I want to caveat by saying the office staff and concierge staff are lovely, but I have been lied to regarding reimbursement dates, not from a fault of employee I don't believe, but a fault of bad management and weak communication processes put in place.

I've had a great experience with Northern Group during my tenancy and would highly recommend! The office staff are really friendly and helpful, as are the maintenance team!

I have been renting with Northern Group for almost 2 years. Everyone has been consistently helpful and responsive. If we need anything fixing in the flat this is always done quickly and efficiently. Everyone in the office is very helpful and friendly. Best lettings company I've come across.

Martin Spencer Architecture
We are based in the Clarence Arcade for nearly 4 years , the offices are well managed, clean and serviced spaces are excellent communal facilities.

Concierge reception management with friendly staff