Leasehold FAQs
What is a leaseholder?
Almost all flats in England and Wales are leasehold, as are many houses. Leaseholders buy the right to live in their property for a fixed number of years. The term, initially up to 125 years, starts to decrease every year until it expires and the ownership of the property returns to us, unless you apply to extend the lease.
What is a lease?
A lease is the legal agreement, or contract, between the freeholder (MHT London) and the leaseholder. The lease sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including the terms of the lease, the rental amount and service charge.
Can the lease be changed?
The lease will generally allow for the services and charges to be changed during the period of the lease. However, in general the conditions of the lease can only be changed if we both agree to the changes, or by the direction of a court or Leasehold Valuation Tribunal.
Will I have to pay service charges?
In addition to the basic rent, you may be required to pay a service charge. Your tenancy agreement will tell you if you have to pay a service charge. Your service charge covers items such as communal lighting, caretaker costs, communal cleaning, lifts, entry phone, etc. It also includes the administration costs that relate to these services.
What repairs am I responsible for?
As a leaseholder, you will normally own and be responsible for everything within the four walls of your property, with the exception of pipes and drains that also serve other properties. As your landlord we remain the owner of the overall building and the land it stands on and remain responsible for the maintenance and repair of the structure and exterior of the building.
What if the leaseholder fails to do what they are responsible for?
If you have not kept up your repairing obligations under the lease, we have the right to do the work and charge you for it. You must allow our contractors into your property if they need to carry out a repair to the property next door.
How do I report a repair that is the responsibility of MHT London?
Go to the Report a repair section for information.
What if MHT London fails to carry out its duties?
Contact our Customer Services Team on 0800 783 2399.
If I want to sell my home, what should I do?
Contact our Customer Services Team on 0800 783 2399.