If you own a leasehold house, you may not own the land it stands on—but since the start of 2025, you no longer have to wait to change that. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 abolished the two-year wait period for leasehold house owners to buy their freehold. This means that eligible homeowners no longer need to wait before initiating the process, removing a key barrier that previously delayed their ability to gain full ownership. That means you can now start your leasehold enfranchisement journey immediately after purchase.
Leasehold enfranchisement is the legal right to purchase your home’s freehold, putting you in complete control of your property. Once you’ve acquired the freehold, you’ll stop paying ground rent, gain the right to make structural alterations without permission, and enhance your home’s value and mortgage ability. For many homeowners, this also brings emotional reassurance and the freedom to treat their house as a true asset, not a lease agreement on borrowed land.
Most leasehold houses in England and Wales qualify, provided the lease was originally granted for more than 21 years and the property is primarily residential. Some exemptions apply for homes owned by charities or located on protected land such as Crown Estates or National Trust holdings. However, the 2025 reforms have widened access, making it easier for everyday homeowners to transition from leaseholder to freeholder.
The process starts with appointing a leasehold enfranchisement solicitor to confirm eligibility and serve a statutory notice on your freeholder. A valuer will then assess the purchase premium. Importantly, with the abolition of marriage value in 2025, you’ll benefit from a fairer, more affordable valuation. Once the premium is agreed, the matter proceeds to transfer of title—putting your name, not your landlord’s, on the freehold register.
Why Buy Your Freehold?
- Freedom to extend or renovate your home without landlord consent
- No more ground rent – stop annual payments to third parties
- Higher resale value and easier access to mortgage products
- Security of full ownership with no lease expiry risk
Is Leasehold Enfranchisement Right for Me?
While buying your freehold brings long-term benefits, it’s important to consider your individual circumstances before moving forward. If you plan to stay in your home for the foreseeable future, owning the freehold can provide security, flexibility, and cost savings. However, if you’re thinking of selling soon or your lease still has many years left, it may be worth weighing the upfront costs against your plans. Speaking with a solicitor and a qualified surveyor can help you understand the likely premium, the legal process involved, and whether leasehold enfranchisement aligns with your goals—financially and personally.
How can Starck Uberoi help you?
At Starck Uberoi Solicitors, we’re trusted specialists in leasehold enfranchisement for house owners. As accredited members of ALEP, we offer expert guidance at every step—from eligibility checks to negotiations and filings. Whether you’re planning to start the process soon or are simply exploring your options, our legal team is here to help.
Our Offices
You will find our solicitors on Brentford High Street, our solicitors on St Mary’s Road in Ealing, our solicitors in Grosvenor Gardens, our solicitors on Pinner High Street, our solicitors on Richmond Green and our solicitors in The Precincts, Canterbury.
Our partner, Raminder Uberoi, can also offer a Notary Public Service at any of our London offices.
ALEP
