A basic guide to leaseholder rights and responsibilities
Landlord or freeholder duties
Below are the most common rights and responsibilities of landlords and their managing agents. But every lease is different so always check yours.
Responsibilities
Common responsibilities of landlords and their managing agents include:
- repairs and maintenance to a building’s structure (like the roof, walls, foundations) and any shared areas or services
- arranging the buildings insurance
- ensuring you can access the property and communal areas
- upholding your right to quiet enjoyment
In some small blocks or converted houses, leaseholders can be responsible for these things. Always check your lease.
The landlord must provide you with their name and address and a summary of your rights and responsibilities each time they ask for ground rent, service charges or any type of administration charge.
Find out more about leasehold repairs including:
- responsibilities for making and paying for repairs
- requesting repair work
- resolving problems related to repairs
Rights
Making sure rules in the lease are followed
The landlord can take action if a leaseholder breaks the rules of the lease. For example, not maintaining their property, making unauthorised alterations or not paying their service charges.
This may include enforcement action, recovering costs or, in extreme cases, taking steps to end the lease (forfeiture). Always get advice if your landlord threatens legal action or forfeiture of your lease.
Accessing your property
Landlords (or their agents) usually have the right to enter your property for specific reasons, such as:
- checking repairs
- carrying out work in your flat or other parts of the building
Landlords must give reasonable notice and arrange visits in advance (except in emergencies). Management companies might also have access rights, but only if the lease allows it.
The landlord must not abuse this right. You always have the right to live in your home without unlawful interference (even if the lease does not state this).
Collecting service charges
The landlord can charge leaseholders for the costs of maintaining and repairing the building, cleaning, communal services and insurance. Charges must be reasonable. For major works or long-term agreements for services, landlords must also follow a strict process called Section 20 (S20) consultation.
Find out more about:
Giving permission
You might need your landlord’s permission (“consent”) to do certain things. These will be explained in the lease and can include:
- subletting
- making alterations
- having a pet
The landlord can charge a reasonable fee or set conditions as part of their permission but only if the lease allows them to do so.
Find out more about:
- Last updated:
- 22 December 2025
- Next review:
- 22 December 2027
Related content
An introduction to leasehold and the key things to be aware of if you live in a leasehold property.
Topic - Leasehold essentials