Leasehold enfranchisement refers to the legal process that allows leaseholders to extend their lease or collectively purchase the freehold of their property. It grants leaseholders greater control, ownership, and security over their homes.

Relevant Law: The main legislation governing leasehold enfranchisement in the UK is the Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993, along with subsequent amendments.

Leasehold enfranchisement provides two primary options:

Lease Extension: Leaseholders have the right to extend their lease for a further term, adding years to the existing lease.

Collective Enfranchisement: Leaseholders can collectively purchase the freehold of their building or block, gaining complete ownership and control.

Relevant Law: The Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993 outlines the procedures and requirements for lease extensions and collective enfranchisement.

To be eligible for leasehold enfranchisement, leaseholders must meet certain criteria, including:

Holding a long lease (typically at least two years remaining on the lease).

Ownership of a qualifying residential property, such as a flat or apartment.

Meeting the necessary participation and qualification thresholds for collective enfranchisement.

Relevant Law: The eligibility criteria for leasehold enfranchisement are outlined in the Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993.

The process for leasehold enfranchisement typically includes:

Serving the initial notice to the landlord or freeholder.

Obtaining a valuation of the lease extension or freehold purchase.

Negotiating the terms, including the premium or purchase price.

Finalizing the agreement, including the new lease terms or transfer of freehold ownership.

Relevant Law: The Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993 specifies the statutory procedures and timelines for leasehold enfranchisement.

Yes, there have been significant case laws and reported cases on leasehold enfranchisement. Some notable recent cases include:

Mundy v. Sloane Stanley Estate (2018): This case dealt with the calculation of lease extension premiums and the methodology used for assessing the value of the lease.

Trustees of the Sloane Stanley Estate v. Mundy (2020): This case provided further clarification on the valuation methodology for lease extensions.

Various cases related to the interpretation of the legislation and determination of eligibility for collective enfranchisement.

Relevant Law and Case Laws: In addition to the Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993, these cases have helped shape the interpretation and application of the law in leasehold enfranchisement matters.

Sky Solicitors can provide comprehensive assistance with leasehold enfranchisement, including:

Explaining your rights and options under the relevant legislation.

Assisting with the preparation and service of necessary notices.

Conducting valuations and negotiating premium or purchase

price.

Representing you in discussions with landlords or freeholders.

Handling the legal procedures and documentation required for lease extensions or collective enfranchisement.

Relevant Law and Case Laws: Sky Solicitors stays updated with the latest legal provisions, including the Leasehold Reform, Housing, and Urban Development Act 1993, as well as relevant case laws to provide accurate advice and representation.