Applying to the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal (Wales)
About the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal
Leasehold Valuation Tribunals (LVT) are part of the Welsh Government and provide an accessible and relatively informal way to resolve residential leasehold disputes. Each LVT usually consists of three members: a lawyer, who is often the chairman, a valuer and a lay person. The LVT is entirely independent and impartial in its approach.
Proceedings at the LVT are semi-formal. Neither side is required to be represented by a barrister, solicitor or valuer, evidence is not given on oath and the usual court rules do not apply. However, parties appearing before an LVT may wish to seek professional advice, and it is sensible to arrange representation if the argument relates to the interpretation of the law or the terms of the lease. In cases of a technical nature, the LVT is usually assisted by expert evidence from a valuer or experienced property manager.
However, if you choose not to be legally represented you must remember that you will be responsible for presenting your own case, including arguments and evidence, and that the evidence should be presented clearly and concisely and be confined to the matter in dispute. The LVT hears both sides of the argument and then determines the issue on the basis of the evidence and the judgment and experience of the LVT members. Their decision is issued in writing as soon as possible after the hearing.
Applicants for a determination may be long leasehold tenants, landlords or, in certain circumstances, renting tenants. The applicant pays an application fee and, where a hearing is held, a hearing fee, but after that each party normally pays their own costs. However, in some cases a landlord may be able to recover their costs under the terms of the lease. If this is the case, advice should be sought on the options available. Finally, the LVT has the power to award a limited amount of costs in certain circumstances. Further details on this can be found in the section Other costs of appearing before the LVT.
LVT hearings are open to the public and their decisions can be seen at the LVT office. Decisions are also published on the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal website.
LVTs can determine a wide range of disputes, including:
- disputes about the terms and price of buying the freehold or extending a lease
- disputes about the liability to pay, and reasonableness of, a service charge, an administration charge, or an estate management scheme charge
- disputes relating to building insurance
- whether it would be appropriate to appoint a new manager in a block of flats
- whether a residential long lease (primarily of flats) should be varied
- disputes relating to the right to manage
- alleged breaches of a lease prior to a landlord serving a notice under Section 146 of the Law of Property Act 1925
- whether a dispensation should be granted in respect of the consultation requirements under section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
- Last updated:
- 8 December 2020
- Next review:
- 18 December 2026