Skip to main content

Want to take over the management of your building?

Our E-Learning platform has modules for leaseholders looking to manage their own building using a RTM company.

Find out more here

How can we buy the freehold of our building?

Leaseholders who own flats can get together to buy the freehold of their building either under the law if they meet certain criteria (formal route), or by asking the freeholder to see whether they are willing to sell the freehold informally (informal route).

Formal Route

Under this route the freeholder and leaseholders need to follow a procedure and strict timescales set out in the law. This route offers more protection to leaseholders if they cannot agree the terms and/or the price with the freeholder. Leaseholders can in this case apply to the Tribunal to decide on the issue.

Informal route

Under this route, leaseholders can approach the freeholder in the first instance and ask whether they are interested in selling them the freehold. There is no obligation on the freeholder to respond or to agree to sell following this request.  If the freeholder agrees then both parties will have to negotiate.

It is worth starting the process informally as it could save time and money. But if negotiations fail, then leaseholders who comply with the criteria, can use the formal route to try and buy the freehold and go to the Tribunal if no agreement on the price or the terms can be reached.

Buying the freehold can be a difficult process. We recommend you get professional help from a solicitor and surveyor with experience in this area.

Download a template informal letter enquiring about lease extension of a flat, or to purchase the freehold of a house or flat

 


More information you might find useful:

Still not found the answer?

Contact LEASE to have your enquiry dealt with by one of our experienced advisers

LEASE is governed by a board, appointed as individuals by the Secretary of State for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities.