Leasehold & Freehold Services

Our services

For leaseholders

For freeholders

Whether you’re looking to extend your lease, manage your building, or handle a breach of lease, we provide clear guidance and robust support every step of the way. Explore our services below to find the right assistance for your property needs. With years of experience and a reputation for tenacity, we are committed to protecting your interests and ensuring you get the results you deserve. Explore the range of services we offer below.

Our leasehold services

As a leaseholder, understanding your rights and responsibilities can be essential for protecting the value and stability of your property. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we provide comprehensive support for flat owners facing leasehold challenges, ensuring you have clarity and confidence in every decision.

Extend your lease

With each year that passes, the value of your flat can decrease, especially if your lease term drops below 90 years. Our team are experts in navigating both voluntary and statutory lease extensions, having handled thousands of cases. We’ll guide you through every step, from initial cost advice to the final paperwork, ensuring your lease extension is seamless and efficient.

Learn more about extending your lease.

Conversion to freehold – Enfranchisement

If you and your neighbours want to collectively buy the freehold of your building, our enfranchisement experts are here to help. We’ll assess your building’s eligibility, advise on your options, and guide you through the process of achieving ownership, all tailored to your unique circumstances.

Learn more about Conversion to Freehold – Enfranchisement

Right to manage

For those looking to take control of their building’s management, the Right to Manage offers a statutory route. This process, although empowering, involves several technical steps that are best handled by specialists. With our extensive experience in running Right to Manage (RTM) claims, you can rely on us for a smooth, successful transition.

Learn more about Right to Manage

Missing landlord tracing services

If your landlord’s whereabouts are unknown, acquiring the freehold or extending your lease may require a court application. We routinely assist flat owners in navigating these cases, ensuring you can move forward with confidence.

Learn more about Missing Landlord Tracing Services

Right of first refusal

If your landlord has sold the property without offering you the chance to buy it first, this could be a breach of the Right of First Refusal. Our team can advise you on whether the new owner might be compelled to offer the property back to you and your fellow leaseholders.

Learn more about your Right of First Refusal.

License for alterations

When considering alterations to your flat, understanding the legal necessity of a Licence for alterations is paramount. This document not only provides formal consent from your freeholder but also safeguards you from potential lease breaches that could result in penalties or legal action.

Learn more about our services related to obtaining the licence for alterations.

First tier tribunal litigation

In some cases, leaseholders and freeholders may need a legal resolution for critical issues, such as service charge disputes or building management concerns. Our solicitors are seasoned experts in First-tier Tribunal cases, providing you with skilled representation and strategic advice to resolve disputes effectively.

Learn more about First Tier Tribunal Litigation

Bona Vacantia

If your freeholder’s company has been dissolved and unclaimed for over six years, the freehold may revert to the Crown as “Bona Vacantia.” Our team are well-versed in assisting leaseholders through this process, liaising with the Treasury Solicitor’s Department to help you acquire the freehold interest.

Learn more about Bona Vacantia

Our freehold services

Owning and managing freehold properties comes with a unique set of legal responsibilities, especially when leaseholders exercise their rights or if compliance issues arise. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we’re here to help freeholders navigate these complexities smoothly and with expert support.

Breach of lease

Issues with lease compliance can sometimes require legal intervention, whether through First-tier Tribunal proceedings or by negotiating retrospective licences for alterations. With our extensive experience, we’ll help you address breach of lease cases strategically, ensuring your interests are upheld.

Explore how we assist with Breach of Lease matters.

Freehold disposals

Whether you’re responding to a Section 13 Notice or proactively looking to sell a freehold interest, having skilled guidance is key. If leaseholders have served a Section 13 Notice, you’re legally required to sell, and we can help ensure your position is safeguarded. Additionally, if you wish to sell the freehold through auction or directly to leaseholders, our team will handle every legal aspect to ensure a straightforward process.

Learn more about Freehold Disposals

Counter notice assistance: Lease extensions

Leaseholders often seek to extend their leases under Leasehold Reform legislation, which means freeholders are frequently presented with Section 42 Notices. We provide clear, practical advice on how to respond effectively, protecting your rights and negotiating terms that work for you.

Learn more about Lease Extension Counter Notice for Freeholders

Our Fees

We are always clear and up front about costs, so you know what to expect and won’t get any surprises. Once our solicitors understand your case and what you want to achieve, they will advise you of the best way to pay for it.

For any leasehold or freehold-related legal issues, contact us today or call 020 7940 4060 to speak with one of our experienced solicitors or email your enquiry at mail@anthonygold.co.uk. We’re here to help you find the right solution.

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020 7940 4060

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Ian Mitchell

Head of Department

020 7940 4060

ian.mitchell@anthonygold.co.uk

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Leasehold & Freehold:
Frequently Asked Questions

Can an individual leaseholder act on the Right of First Refusal alone?
Can I apply to the court to extend my lease without locating my landlord?
Can I challenge a Section 13 Notice, and on what grounds?
Can I oppose a lease extension request from a leaseholder?
How can I maximise the value of my freehold when responding to a Section 13 Notice?
How do I find out the unexpired term of my lease?

Can an individual leaseholder act on the Right of First Refusal alone?

No, an individual leaseholder cannot exercise the right of first refusal alone. For the process to move forward, more than 50% of the qualifying leaseholders in the building must agree to collectively act. This collective approach is necessary to meet the legal requirements and demonstrate that there is sufficient leaseholder interest in acquiring the freehold or head lease under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987.

Can I apply to the court to extend my lease without locating my landlord?

Yes, you can apply to the court to extend your lease if your landlord is missing. This is done under statutory provisions such as the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993. The court steps in to authorise the process, allowing the leaseholder to proceed even when the landlord’s whereabouts are unknown. Expert valuation evidence will be required, and a solicitor can guide you through the necessary steps to make the application successful.

Can I challenge a Section 13 Notice, and on what grounds?

Yes, you can challenge a Section 13 Notice if it contains errors, if the leaseholders do not qualify, or if it fails to meet statutory requirements. Consulting with a solicitor is essential to identify any valid grounds for challenging the notice and securing your position effectively.

Can I oppose a lease extension request from a leaseholder?

Under specific circumstances, you may have grounds to oppose a leaseholder’s request for an extension, such as when redevelopment plans are in place. Opposing a lease extension is a complex area of law, and you must ensure your response complies with all legal requirements. Our team can assess your situation and help determine the best course of action. Discover more about Counter Notice Assistance for lease extensions.

How can I maximise the value of my freehold when responding to a Section 13 Notice?

Maximising the value of your freehold involves obtaining an accurate valuation and enlisting a solicitor to negotiate favourable terms. A strategic response and a well-drafted counter-notice, supported by professional advice, can help secure the best possible outcome for your sale.

How do I find out the unexpired term of my lease?

The unexpired term of your lease is typically recorded in your lease document. If you do not have easy access to this, you can obtain the information from the Land Registry. At Anthony Gold Solicitors, we can assist you with confirming the unexpired term through relevant checks to ensure you have an accurate understanding before proceeding.