What are your responsibilities if you are self managing a MUD

f you’re self-managing a Multi-Unit Development (MUD) in Ireland—meaning the Owners’ Management Company (OMC) does not use a professional managing agent—there are several legal, financial, and practical responsibilities you must take on. These include:

1. Compliance with the MUD Act (2011):

You must ensure the OMC operates in line with the Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011, which includes:

• Maintaining a register of unit owners
• Holding annual general meetings (AGMs)
• Preparing an annual report and service charge budget
• Establishing and managing a sinking fund for long-term capital works

2. Property Maintenance and Services:

You are responsible for arranging:

• Cleaning and maintenance of common areas (e.g. lobbies, hallways, gardens)
• Waste collection
• Utility services for shared areas (e.g. lighting, lifts, water)
• Repairs to roofs, lifts, and shared infrastructure

3. Financial Management:

You must handle:

• Setting and collecting annual service charges
• Managing the OMC’s bank account
• Keeping financial records and preparing accounts
• Budgeting for ongoing costs and long-term maintenance (via the sinking fund)

4. Insurance:

You need to arrange appropriate insurance cover, including:

• Block insurance for the buildings and common areas
• Public liability insurance
• Directors’ and officers’ liability insurance for the OMC board

5. Governance and Legal Obligations:

The OMC must:

• Comply with company law (e.g. annual returns to the Companies Registration Office)
• Keep minutes of meetings and corporate records
• Ensure that only unit owners are members of the OMC
• Address disputes and complaints in accordance with the MUD Act

6. Communication and Record-Keeping:

You must maintain clear communication with unit owners and:

• Circulate notices for meetings and decisions
• Share financial statements and AGM minutes
• Maintain records of correspondence, contracts, and legal documents

Important Tip:
Self-managing a MUD can be time-consuming and legally complex. It’s essential to seek legal, financial, or professional advice where needed and consider engaging a property manager if the workload becomes too great or specialised.