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.

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

Having used Porter Dodson for many years we still feel we are well looked after especially when using a range of their services with different team members. Louise and Tiffany are always so friendly, reassuring and professional. I can highly recommend them for conveyancing.

Carol

Excellent service from Nicola Hughes, Roisin Royle and team when seeing through a less than straightforward sale. Showed great determination acting in a very professional manner and always communicating well. Highly recommended.

Tim

Many thanks to Nicola, Róisín and Maisie in Exeter for bringing this sale to a successful conclusion, you dealt with it admirably.

Residential Property Client