Fighting to maintain and improve conditions for tenants and create harmony between them and their landlords is something Amax Estates & Property Services takes in its stride.

Amax, which is in Parrock Street, Gravesend, is a previous Dartford & Gravesham Awards runner-up and member of numerous property associations, offering services in residential lettings and property management, block management and sales.

It has been challenged by taking on large estates in its 12-year history. From persistent rain damage, which saw staff giving up their Christmas break last winter, to unruly tenants, the company has fought and won many battles.

Founder and managing director Maxine Fothergill said: “Over the years, since we took on block management, we have taken on some estates with what are best described as some very unsavoury residents.

“We take issues of anti-social behaviour very seriously and will do everything within our power to help. This does not form part of our management agreement, but we are aware that living in an apartment under such conditions can be very distressing.

“Due to the work we have carried out on several of our estates, we have earned ourselves a great reputation and we are very proud of the fact that up until now we have never had to advertise our block management services as all of our clients have come to us completely on recommendation.

“Our hard work over the years has been recognised by the police and we were awarded the ‘Keeping Bexley Safe Award’ by keeping crime rate down by 89%.”

Staff training is also important in an industry with ever-changing legislation, and Amax ensures its locally sourced employees enjoy 15 hours’ Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year.

The company is also keen to offer local young people a chance to break into the industry and has taken on three apprentices in various roles with the chance to gain qualifications at college.

With a new interactive website, each staff member has their own section explaining who they are and what they do so users can put a name to the face, giving a much more personal feel when speaking over the phone or by email.

Amax is one of the entrants in the Dartford and Gravesham Business Awards. This year’s award sponsors are Dartford council, Gravesham council, Barnes Roffe, Kent Business School (University of Kent), the KM Group (Dartford Messenger and Gravesend Messenger), Lloyds Bank, Thomson Snell and Passmore, Edinburgh House and the University of Greenwich.

Entries have now closed. The winner will be announced later this year.