Leasehold and Collective Enfranchisement and Lease Extensions

We have particular expertise in this area of law and are members of ALEP (Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners). We have links with surveyors across the country to ensure that you receive the best possible advice from the outset. It is important to instruct a suitably qualified leasehold solicitor if you require/wish to grant a lease extension or if you wish to collectively buy your freehold with your neighbours or if your leaseholders have exercised this right against you as there could be detrimental and adverse costs consequences if the process is not used correctly.

Lease extensions

If you have owned your long residential lease for at least 2 years, you may be entitled to a lease extension from your landlord for an additional 90 years at nil ground rent. The procedure involves strict time limits and various Notices to be served by both landlord and tenant. This process can take some months to complete and although disputes may arise, we will guide you through as cost effectively and as quickly as possible whilst ensuring that your rights are protected at all times – whether you are a landlord or a tenant. Extending a lease does not have to be complicated but it can involve contentious issues and we have extensive experience in that field.

Collective enfranchisement /Buying your freehold

A majority of long leaseholders can group together and buy the freehold in certain circumstances. This may be desirable if you want control of the building, or you wish to extend/change your leases afterwards. A share of the freehold may also add value to your flat. As with lease extensions, the procedure involves the service of various Notices and strict time limits. We will liaise closely with your valuer throughout the process to ensure that you obtain the best possible outcome. We will also advise you and your neighbours on the formation of a company in order to buy the freehold so that the whole process is taken care of from start to finish.

We will:-

• advise you on the statutory procedures for lease extensions or collective enfranchisement from the start to completion
• instruct and liaise with a suitably qualified surveyor with your objectives and best interests in mind
• Negotiate or prepare and draft the lease or leasebacks
• Advise you on your existing lease and whether any amendments should be made in the new lease
• Ensure that all statutory time limits are adhered to and used to your advantage
• Prepare Participation Agreements to ensure that your rights in relation to other leaseholders are protected in a collective enfranchisement
• Prepare all transfer documentation upon the sale of freehold interests
• Make applications to and appear at the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal should a dispute arise
• Apply for vesting orders where the landlord is an absentee or is missing.