Leasehold Reform & Commonhold
Leasehold law is undergoing significant reform. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 (LAFRA) introduced major changes aimed at making leasehold ownership fairer, simpler, and more transparent. The government released the draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill in January 2026, followed by an announcement of further proposed reforms in September 2026. Whether you’re a leaseholder, freeholder, or developer, we’ll help you make sense of the reforms.
What’s changing?
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 brought major changes. You no longer need two years’ ownership to extend your lease. More buildings now qualify for Right to Manage, including mixed-use buildings with up to 50% non-residential space. And in most cases, each side pays their own RTM legal costs.
Secondary legislation
The draft Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill 2026 is proposing amongst other things to cap ground rents at £250 a year before changing to a peppercorn (£0) after 40 years, and making it easier for leaseholders to convert their homes to commonhold. One of the reforms proposed in September 2026 include regulating property managers, with the requirement for them to hold a licence and have appropriate qualifications to operate.
What is commonhold?
Commonhold lets you own your flat outright while jointly managing shared areas with neighbours. There’s no lease, no ground rent, and no external landlord. Instead, you help run the building through a Commonhold Association. You will manage shared areas such as hallways, roofs, and gardens. It’s aim is fairer, simpler, and future-focused ownership.
Who we help
We act for leaseholders, freeholders, developers, and managing agents who are navigating these reforms, whether responding to recent changes under LAFRA or preparing for forthcoming legislation. We stay ahead of legislative developments and are ready to guide clients through the practical implications of the leasehold reforms.
Our specialist expertise
We review leases, advise on extensions, support RTM claims, and guide clients through commonhold conversion. Our focus is always on what’s best for your property goals, not just what’s legally possible. We help you stay one step ahead, so you’re ready to act when the time’s right.
Questions we’re often asked
Yes, but right now, you’ll need unanimous consent. Reforms may simplify this.
Not immediately, but the government plans to phase out leasehold for new flats and make commonhold the default.
This depends on your circumstances. If you're selling or refinancing, you may not be able to wait. We can advise based on your lease length, your circumstances and the timing of proposed changes.
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