Charity Property Podcast - The Ethical Property Foundation

About Charity Property Podcast - The Ethical Property Foundation

The Ethical Property Foundation is the UK’s only dedicated property advice charity serving the UK voluntary sector. We support hundreds of voluntary groups every year through our “Ask a Property Expert (https://ethicalproperty.zohodesk.eu/portal/en/newticket)” service. Our free Weston Property Manual (https://propertyhelp.org/weston-property-manual/), nominated for two awards, and our Property FAQs (https://propertyhelp.org/info-desk-faq/) are available on our website (https://propertyhelp.org/) for any group seeking to acquire and run premises.

Publisher

The Ethical Property Foundation

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Feb 2024

Latest episode

3 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Jun 2026

   CPP16 – Moving Premises? Managing Charity Energy Costs with Confidence

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, interviews Emily Berry, Partnership Director from Utility Aid on how charities can plan ahead and manage energy costs when moving premises. Key topics:  Planning ahead for a move: Why energy costs should be considered before signing a lease or purchase, and how early planning can prevent unexpected expenses.  Understanding affordability: How to assess potential energy costs using soft quotes, and why changes in building use can significantly impact your bills.  Different buildings, different challenges: From faith buildings with subletting arrangements, to hospices with high energy demand, and offices with more predictable usage patterns.  Managing shared spaces: The importance of submetering and fairly allocating energy costs when hiring out space.  Key questions for suppliers: Understanding energy usage, equipment efficiency, and identifying potential red flags through energy surveys.  Avoiding costly mistakes: The risks of overlooking energy during a move, including failing to review contracts, missing meter readings, and not planning for change of tenancy.  Collective purchasing options: How charities can benefit from group energy schemes and negotiated contracts through Utility Aid. Tune in for practical advice to help your charity move premises with confidence while keeping energy costs manageable. Need help understanding energy terminology? Visit the Utility Aid Jargon Buster on our help pages for clear explanations of key energy terms: https://propertyhelp.org/help/sustainability/utility-aid-jargon-buster/. Looking to reduce your energy costs? Explore the Utility Aid energy switching platform on our website to compare options and find the right deal for your organisation: https://propertyhelp.org/energy-savings/. With thanks to our supporters: This podcast is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Garfield Weston Foundation and City Bridge Foundation.

2. 

   29 Apr 2026

   CPP15 – Managing charity energy costs in uncertain times

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, interviews Emily Berry, Partnerships Director from Utility Aid on how charities can better manage and protect their energy costs in a rapidly changing global landscape. Key topics: Rising uncertainty and energy risk: With global events impacting energy markets, charities are increasingly focused on managing risk, understanding when to renew contracts, and making informed purchasing decisions. Understanding your energy bills: Breaking down fixed commodity costs versus non-commodity charges, and why the cheapest option isn’t always the best without understanding what’s included. Planning for sustainable costs: How your building type, energy usage patterns, and operational hours should shape your energy strategy and contract choices. Different buildings, different challenges: From heritage properties with limited upgrade options to community centres with variable usage, tailoring your approach is key. Questions to ask your supplier: Key checks around contract structure, meter readings, billing accuracy, and the benefits of smart meters. Common mistakes to avoid: Overlooking terms and conditions, misunderstanding tariffs, and failing to actively manage your energy contract. Tune in for practical insights and expert advice to help your charity navigate energy uncertainty and take control of your utility costs. Need help understanding energy terminology? Visit the Utility Aid Jargon Buster on our help pages for clear explanations of key energy terms: https://propertyhelp.org/help/sustainability/utility-aid-jargon-buster/. Looking to reduce your energy costs? Explore the Utility Aid energy switching platform on our website to compare options and find the right deal for your organisation: https://propertyhelp.org/energy-savings/. With thanks to our supporters: This podcast is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Garfield Weston Foundation and City Bridge Foundation.

3. 

   3 Feb 2026

   CPP14 – Is Your Charity Trying to Save Money? The Dangers of Being Underinsured

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, interviews Jade Winter, Director at Norris & Fisher Brokers, on the risks charities face when trying to cut costs on insurance. Key topics: Understanding underinsurance: How to determine if your charity is underinsured, and why accurate building and asset valuations are essential. Risks of cutting corners: Going direct to insurers may lower premiums but can leave gaps in coverage, increased excesses, and limited support during claims. The value of expert input: Even if a charity manages insurance independently, brokers can identify gaps, guide claims, advise on risk management, and recommend appropriate cover limits. Finding the right balance: Trustees should review policies regularly to ensure they’re neither underinsured nor carrying unnecessary cover, safeguarding both assets and finances. Tune in for practical advice and insider guidance on avoiding underinsurance, so your charity can protect its assets, manage risk, and make informed insurance decisions. Need expert guidance? Find out more about our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) and support services on the Ethical Property (https://propertyhelp.org/) Foundation (https://propertyhelp.org/) website and discover specialist charity insurance solutions at Norris & (https://www.norrisandfisher.com/) Fisher (https://www.norrisandfisher.com/) Insurance Brokers.

4. 

   2 Dec 2025

   CPP13 – Getting the best deal from your insurer

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, interviews Jade Winter, Director at Norris and Fisher Brokers, on how charity trustees can ensure their insurance policies provide adequate protection at a manageable cost. Key topics: Essential questions for trustees: Are all activities, premises, and offsite items covered? Are rebuild figures and contents up to date? Is business interruption cover sufficient? Top tips for keeping costs manageable: Shop around, check for discounts, review cover limits, and avoid misrepresentation. Common pitfalls: Missing essential covers such as fidelity guarantee or cyber insurance, focusing only on price, or failing to review policies after organisational changes. Proactive policy review: Start at least six weeks before renewal, understand exclusions, compare with the market, and use a broker to test your needs. Tune in for practical advice and insider guidance on what to look for, and what to avoid, so your charity can make confident, informed decisions about insurance. Need expert guidance? Explore the Ethical Property Foundation (https://propertyhelp.org/) website to learn more about our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) and support services and check out the Norris & Fisher (https://www.norrisandfisher.com/) Insurance Brokers website for specialist insurance solutions for charities and voluntary organisations.

5. 

   11 Nov 2025

   CPP12 – Making the right choice: Assessing and selecting your charity’s new premises

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, and Virginia Masters, Associate Property Adviser at the Ethical Property Foundation, discuss how to evaluate shortlisted properties and ensure your charity makes the right move – literally. Key topics: Shortlist decisions: How to compare property options against your charity’s priorities. Facilities and layout: Are the premises flexible, practical, and future-proof? Location matters: Will the space work for staff, volunteers, trustees, and service users? Hidden costs: What’s included in the service charge? Is VAT applicable? Are the overheads sustainable? Due diligence: Why a schedule of condition, full survey, and legal review are essential before signing. Professional advice: The vital role of surveyors and solicitors in identifying deal- breakers and securing amendments. Image and identity: Does the property reflect your charity’s brand and values? Negotiation tips: From rent-free periods for refurbishments to avoiding overlap between leases. Post-signing plans: How to manage fit-outs, occupancy timing, and phased moves. Final checks: Ensuring the property’s pros truly outweigh its cons – before it's too late. If you’re deciding between potential properties, this episode will help you ask the right questions, uncover hidden risks, and make a confident, informed choice. Tune in for practical advice and insider guidance on what to look for, and what to avoid. Need expert advice before signing a lease? Visit the Ethical Property Foundation website to explore our property consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) and support services.

6. 

   16 Sept 2025

   CPP11 – Where to look: Navigating the charity property market

   Hosts: Antonia Swinson, CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation, and Virginia Masters, Associate Property Adviser, discuss how charities can approach the charity property search process and navigate the often complex world of property searches. Key topics: Starting the charity property search process: Why your charity needs internal or external expertise before diving in. Saving time and money: The benefits of professional support to guide your charity property search and avoid costly mistakes. Working with estate agents: Key questions to ask, lease terms, rent reviews, break clauses, and more. Charities as tenants: Why many landlords see charities as stable, trustworthy occupants. Alternatives to commercial leases: Exploring licences, managed spaces, and flexible options for startups. Preparing for viewings: What to bring, what to observe, and how to assess accessibility and convenience. When to compromise: Deciding what’s negotiable, essentials vs. ideals. Legal protections: Why you need a commercial property solicitor and how to avoid personal guarantees. Negotiation strategies: Using a professional to maintain distance and strengthen your bargaining position. Evaluating your shortlist: Comparing options, spotting red flags, and preparing for lease negotiations. If your charity is planning a move or seeking new premises, this episode offers step-by-step guidance through the charity property search process. These practical tips will help you approach the market with confidence, avoid common pitfalls, and secure a space that worksfor your people and mission.Tune in for tips that could save your charity time, stress, and money! Need expert help finding or negotiating premises? The Ethical Property Foundation's consultancy team is here to support you, visit our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) pages to learn more. You can also explore the Weston Property Manual (https://propertyhelp.org/weston-property-manual/) for more in-depth resources.

7. 

   17 Jun 2025

   CPP10 – Laying the foundation: How to prepare a premises brief for your charity

   CEO Antonia Swinson interviews Associate Property Adviser Virginia Masters about crafting a strong premises brief, enabling charities to strategically plan property searches and avoid common pitfalls in the process.

8. 

   6 May 2025

   CPP9: Charities as landlords: what you need to know before letting out space

   Hosts Antonia Swinson, CEO, Ethical Property Foundation and Clare Garbett, Senior Associate, Russell-Cooke Solicitors. Since COVID, many charities have found themselves with extra space and have become landlords - sometimes by accident! But what could go wrong? In this discussion, we explore the key questions every charity should ask before letting out space. Key topics: - Understanding legal constraints: What rules and restrictions could impact your ability to rent out space? - Leases and subletting: How does your lease affect your ability to share or sublet space? - Hotdesking and shared spaces: What are the risks, and how do you manage them effectively? - Covering costs and avoiding pitfalls: How can you ensure financial sustainability as a landlord? - Choosing the right person for the role: Who in your charity should take on the responsibility of managing tenants? Being a landlord isn’t just about extra income - it comes with responsibilities, potential conflicts, and legal complexities. Tune in to get practical insights and expert advice to help you navigate the challenges and make informed decisions. Need guidance on letting out your charity’s space? Managing property as a charity landlord can be complex, from lease agreements to financial considerations and tenant relationships. Our expert consultancy services can help you navigate these challenges, ensuring you stay compliant and avoid costly pitfalls. Visit our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) pages to learn how we can support your charity’s property needs.

9. 

   4 Mar 2025

   CPP8 - Navigating charity-landlord relationships: How your solicitor can help or hinder

   In this episode of the Ethical Property Foundation podcast, Antonia Swinson (CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation) and Clare Garbett (Senior Associate at Russell-Cooke Solicitors) delve into key aspects of charity-landlord relationships and the crucial role solicitors play in managing these dynamics. Key Topics: Establishing a Strong Relationship with Your Landlord: Understanding the foundation of a positive working relationship. Landlord Priorities: Differences in goals between commercial landlords and local authority landlords at the start and end of a lease. Common Mistakes Charities Make: Insights into typical errors charities make when working with landlords and how to avoid them. Role of Solicitors in Disputes: Practical examples of how solicitors can help resolve conflicts and protect charity interests. Negotiating Clear Lease Terms: How solicitors can help ensure clarity in lease agreements to prevent future issues. Handling Lease Breaches: What to do when a breach occurs and how solicitors can help resolve it. Tune in to learn how solicitors can safeguard your charity property interests and avoid costly disputes in the future. Need expert advice on your charity's property issues? Our consultancy services can help you navigate complex charity-landlord relationships and ensure your lease agreements are sound. Visit our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) pages to learn more about how we can support your charity's property needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

10. 

    23 Jan 2025

    Episode 7 - How to get the Best from your Solicitor

    In this episode of the Ethical Property Foundation podcast, Antonia Swinson (CEO of the Ethical Property Foundation) and Clare Garbett (Senior Associate at Russell-Cooke Solicitors) discuss how charities can effectively work with solicitors to manage their property. Key topics include: What kind of clients do solicitors prefer to work with? What essential information should charities provide upfront to reduce costs? Understanding solicitor fees: Should you expect to pay hundreds or thousands for advice on a lease renewal? How to measure the success of your relationship with a solicitor. They also dive into practical tips like how to organise documents, manage legal fees, and ensure you get the most value from legal advice. Plus, they explore how maintaining institutional memory;—keeping track of key property data and lease details—can save time and costs. If you're a charity looking to navigate legal advice and property management efficiently, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions and build a successful working relationship with your solicitor. Tune in for expert advice and actionable tips! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

11. 

    10 Dec 2024

    Episode 6 - Understanding the Hidden Costs for Charities in Leasing a Building

    Charity Property Podcast host Rachel Neale and expert guests provide essential insights and practical advice on navigating hidden costs for charities in leasing a building to manage finances effectively.

12. 

    31 Oct 2024

    Elephant traps if you want to get out of a lease: break clause and knowing your rights.

    In this episode, we delve into the complexities of break clauses and your rights as a tenant. We'll cover crucial topics such as: Break Clauses and Knowing Your Rights: Understand what break clauses are, how they work, and what your rights are when invoking them. Lease Termination: Learn about the different ways a lease can come to an end, including the natural expiration of the term. Handing Back the Keys: Discover whether you can simply hand back the keys and walk away, or if there are additional steps you need to take. Timing and Notice: The importance of knowing your break dates, giving proper notice, and organising your timeline to ensure a smooth transition. Legal and Suitability Checks for New Premises: Ensure that your new premises are legally permissible and suitable for your needs, including considerations for planning and conversion costs. Property Condition and Repairs: Understand your obligations to return the property in a good state of repair and what dilapidations entail. Proactive Lease Management: Learn why it's beneficial to consider your obligations at the beginning of the lease, including creating a schedule of condition to limit end-of-lease liabilities. Building Surveys: The importance of conducting a building survey before entering a property as a critical first step in negotiating with a landlord and understanding the state of the building. Join us as we provide essential insights and practical advice to help you navigate the end-of-lease process with confidence and ease. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

13. 

    10 Sept 2024

    Episode 4 - How tenants can use their building: getting consent and what happens if they don’t.

    Episode 4 - How tenants can use their building: getting consent and what happens if they don’t. In this episode, we delve into the essential aspects tenants need to understand about using their leased buildings and the importance of obtaining landlord consent. We'll cover: Landlord’s Consent for Change of Use: Discover when and why you need your landlord’s approval before changing how you use the space. Building License for Alterations: Learn about the necessary licenses for making changes to the building and the implications of unauthorised alterations. Ability to Sublet or Share Possession: Understand the rules and restrictions around subletting or sharing your leased property. Consequences of Not Informing the Landlord: Hear real-life examples of tenants facing significant costs for failing to notify their landlords of changes. Tenant Obligations to the Landlord: Understand your responsibilities, repair liabilities, and who is responsible for the property. Future Proofing the Property: Plan ahead for future use. Consider what you might want to do with the property down the line. Cautious Lease Signing: Don't rush into signing the lease. Think through potential future uses and ensure the lease terms align with your long-term plans. Tune in to get practical advice and avoid common pitfalls when dealing with landlord consent and building use as a tenant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

14. 

    28 May 2024

    Episode 3 - Working with your local authority landlord

    Find out how to achieve success working with your local authority landlord in the Ethical Property Foundation's NEW Charity Property Podcast. What are the hot tips for managing your lease and discover what makes council landlords tick. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

15. 

    28 May 2024

    CPP3 - Working with your local authority landlord

    Hosts Join expert surveyor Simon Taylor, Head of Property Services, Ethical Property Foundation and Michael Fahy, Trustee Lawyer, as they share invaluable insights on successfully collaborating with your local authority landlord. Key Topics Managing your lease: Learn key strategies to navigate lease agreements (https://propertyhelp.org/lessons/8-4-knowing-your-obligations/) and maintain positive landlord relationships. Understanding council landlords: Discover what drives local authority landlords and how to engage with them successfully. Practical tips: Get actionable guidance to avoid common pitfalls and resolve property challenges. For charities and nonprofits: Essential listening for organisations leasing or managing property from local councils. Join us for a deep dive into these essential topics, equipping your charity with the knowledge to manage local authority leases confidently and avoid unnecessary challenges. Need expert guidance on working with your local authority landlord? Our consultancy services offer tailored advice to help your charity navigate lease agreements and strengthen relationships with council landlords. Visit our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) pages for personalised support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

16. 

    16 Apr 2024

    Episode 2 - Getting out of your Property

    Join the Ethical Property Foundation podcast as we guide trustees through property disposals from charity properties. Explore responsible strategies for relinquishing keys when properties are vacant. Gain clarity on occupancy, rent, and obligations, addressing uncertainties charities face in occupying properties while ensuring community impact. For more information visit our website (https://propertyhelp.org/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

17. 

    16 Apr 2024

    CPP2 - Getting out of your property

    Hosts Join expert surveyor Simon Taylor, Head of Property Services, Ethical Property Foundation and Michael Fahy, Trustee Lawyer, as they guide charity trustees through the key steps of property disposals. Key topics: Understanding property disposals: Learn how to exit a property (https://propertyhelp.org/courses/11-disposal-of-a-property/) responsibly while meeting legal and financial obligations. Handing back the keys: Explore best practices for vacating charity properties and fulfilling lease terms. Occupancy, rent and responsibilities: Get clarity on your charity’s obligations when leaving a leased or owned property. Avoiding common pitfalls: Address common uncertainties and challenges charities face during the exit process. Maximising community impact: Ensure your charity’s move benefits both your organisation and the local community. Join us for essential insights to help your charity navigate property exits with confidence and avoid unexpected challenges. Need expert advice on exiting your property? Our consultancy services provide tailored support to help charities manage property disposals smoothly. Visit our consultancy pages (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) for expert guidance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

18. 

    21 Feb 2024

    CPP1 - Making the most of your property

    Hosts Join expert surveyor Simon Taylor, Head of Property Services, Ethical Property Foundation and Michael Fahy, Trustee Lawyer, as they explore key strategies to help charities get the most from their property. Key topics: Maximising property value: Learn how to make the best use of your charity’s property, whether rented or owned. Effective property management: Discover essential strategies to optimise space, reduce costs, and increase efficiency. Avoiding costly mistakes: Gain insights into common property pitfalls and how trustees can navigate them successfully. Understanding your lease and ownership: Get practical advice on lease terms, maintenance, and long-term planning. Ensuring long-term sustainability: Explore ways to future-proof your charity’s property strategy for lasting impact. Join us for expert insights to help your charity manage its property effectively (https://propertyhelp.org/courses/8-effective-building-management-and-the-law/) and avoid unnecessary financial risks. Need expert guidance on managing your property? Our consultancy services provide tailored advice to help charities optimise their property use. Visit our consultancy (https://propertyhelp.org/consultancy/) pages for expert support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

19. 

    21 Feb 2024

    Episode 1 - Making the most of your property

    In this brand-new charity property podcast – a lawyer and a surveyor who know their stuff get down to business. Learn how your charity can make the most of its property, whether rented or owned. Plus, how trustees can avoid expensive mistakes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 27 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

41

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.