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Lease Extension & Variation of Leases

Helping you move forward with confidence

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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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Louise and Tiffany were absolutely great. First time purchasing a house and everything went incredibly smoothly, from instruction to completion everything was done in 3 months. Great response times, very kind and professional. 100% would recommend for home purchase.

Residential Property Client

Nicola & Roisin were fantastic. My house purchase was far from standard, and the team at Porter Dodson in Exeter remained professional and kept me updated throughout. They went above and beyond when other parties didn’t and I’d recommend anyone to use them. They’re my first choice! Thanks both.

Harry

Nicola & Roisin were fantastic. My house purchase was far from standard, and the team at Porter Dodson in Exeter remained professional and kept me updated throughout. They went above and beyond when other parties didn’t and I’d recommend anyone to use them. They’re my first choice! Thanks both.

Harry

Reena Raval made selling our house stress free and straightforward, despite the circumstances. From start to finish, Porter Dodson were professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient. Reena's and Beckie's communication was excellent – we were kept informed at every stage, and any questions we had were answered quickly and clearly. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone buying or selling a property. Thank you for your exceptional service.

Claire

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