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Lease Extension & Variation of Leases

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Need to extend or vary a lease? We’re here to help

Whether you're a leaseholder looking to protect the value of your property or a landlord managing your portfolio, extending or varying a lease can be a complex process. At Porter Dodson, our experienced team regularly acts for both landlords and leaseholders in:

  • Statutory and non-statutory lease extensions
  • Collective enfranchisement (buying the freehold)
  • Lease variations to update or correct lease terms

We’ll guide you through your options and help you make an informed decision that protects your long-term interests.

Lease extensions: Statutory vs Non-Statutory 

There are two main routes to extending a lease:

Statutory Lease Extension

(Under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993)

  • You must meet specific eligibility criteria
  • The landlord can only refuse if they plan to redevelop the building
  • Strict legal timescales apply - missing a deadline could mean waiting a year to reapply
  • Legal costs are higher due to formal notices and potential tribunal involvement
  • Ground rent is reduced to a peppercorn (effectively zero) for the remainder of the lease
  • Costs are governed by Section 60 of the Act

If terms are disputed, either party can apply to the First Tier Tribunal—but both sides bear their own legal costs, which can range from £5,000 to £10,000+ VAT.

 

Non-Statutory Lease Extension

  • No eligibility criteria - open to negotiation
  • The landlord can refuse or withdraw at any time
  • No fixed timescales
  • Legal costs are generally lower
  • Ground rent is usually reduced to a peppercorn for the new term only (not the existing term)
  • Costs are managed via a legal undertaking

 

How we can help?

  • Advise you on the best route for your lease extension
  • Handle all legal documentation and negotiations
  • Represent you in tribunal proceedings if needed
  • Work with landlords, leaseholders, and managing agents
  • Provide joined-up advice if your lease extension is part of a wider property transaction
Michelle Wilson - Colour - High Res - 018_425

For legal advice on lease extension and variations

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We had to get a flat purchase in Exeter done very quickly. Nicola Hughes and her team at PD pulled out all the stops to get the purchase over the line in an amazing short time - 2 months from first viewing the flat to moving in! This was despite major complications with the Land Registry. Throughout the rather fraught (for us) process, Nicola was efficient, calm, reassuring and kept us well informed. Very highly recommended.

Steve

I have just sold a house and Porter Dodson were my choice of solicitors. I am so glad I chose this firm! Louise from the Poundbury branch was so helpful. All my enquiries were answered very promptly and clearly and I felt the whole sale was dealt with very professionally. I would not hesitate in recommending this company.

Ben

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy

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