Shabnam Ali-Khan

Reform of the leasehold system is long overdue. It’s broadly agreed that the current model, with its layers of complexity and its potential for abuse, has required reform for some time. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act (LAFRA), which was enacted in a rush under the last government, represents a major step towards fairer ownership structures.

More than a year on from the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act (LAFRA), there is a feeling in the leasehold enfranchisement sector of progress, but also anticipation and some frustration. There is relief that progress has been made after years of debate, frustration that many of the LAFRA’s provisions remain unimplemented and anticipation as we await secondary legislation and a draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill.

The Right to Manage (RTM) has become an increasingly accessible route for leaseholders wanting greater control in the management of their buildings. In March this year we saw the widening of buildings that qualify and the introduction of a general requirement for parties to bear their own costs.

Leasehold has rarely been out of the news in recent years, and for good reason. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, rushed through Parliament in the pre-election wash-up, marked a significant - though incomplete - shift in the power balance between freeholders and leaseholders.