Getting repairs and maintenance done for your shared ownership home
External and structural repairs
If you own a shared ownership home you are responsible for all repair and maintenance costs for your home regardless of the share you own.
If you own a shared ownership flat
For flats, the building owner (usually your landlord) will arrange any external and structural repairs needed.
The cost will be divided between you and the other flat owners in the building if the reserve fund does not cover the cost.
The reserve fund, sometimes called the “sinking fund”, is money collected from your service charge to help contribute towards the cost of future major costs.
If you own a shared ownership house
For shared ownership houses, you’re usually responsible for external and structural repairs as there are fewer shared areas. For example, you may be responsible for the roof, windows and doors. You should check the lease for your responsibilities.
Consulting you on major works
Your landlord (usually a housing association) must consult you before it can do any major work on your building that will cost each leaseholder more than £250 (including VAT). This is to protect you from paying more than you need to.
Major work can include, for example, replacing a lift or repairing the roof.
Find out more: Section 20 consultation
Costs covered by the building warranty for new build homes
For new-build homes, the building warranty usually covers the cost of structural repairs in the first 10 or 12 years.
If you buy a home through shared ownership resale, any remaining period on the building warranty will transfer to you.
- Last updated:
- 15 June 2026
- Next review:
- 15 June 2028
Related content
Your rights to be consulted about major works or long-term agreements for your building
Topic - Costs and chargesYou and your landlord's repair responsibilities, getting repairs and water leaks fixed
Topic - Building managementYour options if you think your service charge is unreasonable or have complaints
Advice guide