Why this matters now
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 is reshaping how leaseholders challenge service charges, approach lease extensions/enfranchisement, and handle legal cost recovery. Its provisions are being brought into force in stages. For example, the two-year ownership requirement for lease extension and freehold purchase claims was removed from 31 January 2025, but at the date of this update the new valuation rules (including the removal of marriage value) had not yet been brought into force. Timing and evidence are therefore crucial.
Key changes at a glance
| Service charges | Clearer, more standardised breakdowns to help leaseholders scrutinise and challenge costs. |
| Valuation reforms | Statutory lease extension/freehold purchase moving to a new basis; removal of marriage value on commencement of the relevant provisions. |
| Landlord legal costs | Tighter limits on passing litigation costs to leaseholders in certain disputes/challenges. |
Note: Not all sections start at the same time. Always check commencement and any transitional rules before serving notices or issuing proceedings.
Practical steps now
- Audit your lease: ground rent, service charge clauses, reserve funds and consent/alteration provisions.
- Keep evidence: store all invoices, demands and Section 20 notices for potential challenges.
- Time your move: the valuation basis (incl. marriage value removal when commenced) can affect cost—seek advice first.
- Consider alternatives: Right to Manage or collective enfranchisement may be more attractive as secondary legislation lands.
Common pitfalls
- Relying on incomplete service charge records.
- Serving notices before commencement/transitional rules are clear.
- Miscalculating premium assumptions for extensions.
How we help
- Lease and title review with a practical action plan.
- Cost challenge strategy and evidence checklists.
- Valuation/timing guidance for extensions and enfranchisement.
FAQs
- Is everything already in force? No – check commencement and transitional provisions for your building.
- Will my extension be cheaper? It depends on term, ground rent and which provisions apply when you act.
- Can I challenge historic charges? Potentially – deadlines and quality of documentation still matter.
Contact Prime Legal Solicitors Today
For a 15-minute triage on your lease, call 0330 3414757 or send an enquiry via our contact form.
Updated 26 October 2026 to reflect the law in force at that date.
Author
Hassan Ansari
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