Extending a leasehold is a significant legal process that can have a major impact on the value and security of your property. If you own a flat or house on a leasehold basis, you may already be aware that a diminishing lease term can affect your ability to sell, remortgage, or even enjoy your home with peace of mind. At The Law Firm Group, our specialist solicitors offer expert legal advice and guidance to help you extend your leasehold efficiently and with confidence.
Why Extend Your Leasehold?
A leasehold is a form of property ownership where you own the property for a fixed period, as outlined in your lease agreement. As the lease term shortens—especially when it falls below 80 years—the property’s value can decrease, and your options for selling or remortgaging may become limited. Mortgage lenders are often reluctant to lend against short leases, and the cost of extending your lease increases the shorter the term becomes.
Common situations where clients seek to extend a leasehold include:
- The lease has less than 90 years remaining, and you want to protect your investment.
- You are planning to sell your property and wish to maximise its market value.
- You wish to remortgage, but lenders require a longer lease term.
- You want to avoid escalating ground rent or unfavourable lease conditions.
Seeking early legal advice from experienced UK solicitors is crucial to understanding your rights and options.
The Legal Process of Leasehold Extension
Step 1: Eligibility and Initial Assessment
Not every leaseholder is automatically entitled to extend their lease. Typically, you must have owned the property for at least two years before qualifying for a statutory lease extension under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993. Our solicitors at The Law Firm Group will review your lease and circumstances to confirm your eligibility and explain your entitlements.
Step 2: Valuation and Serving the Notice
Once eligibility is established, it is essential to obtain a professional valuation to determine the likely premium (the cost of the lease extension). We can recommend trusted surveyors and interpret their reports for you. Our specialist solicitors will then prepare and serve the Section 42 Notice on your freeholder, formally initiating the lease extension process.
Step 3: Freeholder Response and Negotiation
The freeholder will respond with a Counter Notice, which may include their own valuation. Negotiations are often required to agree the premium and the terms of the new lease. Having expert legal advice from The Law Firm Group at this stage ensures your interests are robustly protected and any proposed changes to the lease are fair and reasonable.
Step 4: Legal Completion
Once terms are agreed, our solicitors will handle the legal documentation, liaise with the freeholder’s solicitors, and oversee the registration of your new lease with HM Land Registry. We ensure every detail is attended to, providing you with clarity and peace of mind at every step.
Common Issues and How We Help
Leasehold extension can be complex, especially if:
- The freeholder is unresponsive or disputes your entitlement.
- There are disagreements about the premium or terms of the new lease.
- The property is jointly owned or has complex title issues.
- You are unsure whether to pursue a statutory (legal right) or informal extension.
The Law Firm Group’s experienced solicitors anticipate such challenges and provide practical solutions. If negotiations stall, we guide you through the Tribunal process if needed. Our transparent approach to costs and clear communication helps you make informed decisions, avoiding unnecessary delays or unexpected expenses.
Benefits of Working with The Law Firm Group
Choosing The Law Firm Group for your leasehold extension means you benefit from:
- Expert legal advice from solicitors who specialise in UK leasehold law.
- Clear guidance on your rights, obligations, and the most cost-effective route to extend your lease.
- Efficient handling of all legal paperwork, negotiations, and registrations.
- Protection of your interests at every stage, reducing stress and uncertainty.
- Transparent fees explained upfront, so you know what to expect.
- Ongoing support—our team is always available to answer your questions and provide updates.
Our approachable solicitors understand the importance of plain English explanations and prompt, friendly service. We are here to make the process of extending your leasehold as smooth as possible.
How to Get Started with The Law Firm Group
Your journey to a secure, extended lease begins with an initial consultation with one of our specialist solicitors. We will:
- Review your current lease and discuss your goals.
- Advise you on eligibility and the best options for extension.
- Outline the likely costs and timescales involved.
- Guide you through each stage of the process, from valuation to completion.
Throughout, you can rely on The Law Firm Group for responsive communication, honest advice, and practical support. We keep you fully informed and in control, providing reassurance and clarity from start to finish.
Contact The Law Firm Group for Trusted Leasehold Extension Advice
If you are considering extending a leasehold, whether for a flat or house, let The Law Firm Group provide the expert legal services you need. Our experienced UK solicitors combine specialist knowledge with a client-focused approach, ensuring your interests are protected at every stage. With us, you can extend your leasehold with confidence, knowing you have a trusted legal partner by your side.
