Enfranchisement is a legal process that allows leaseholders to acquire the freehold of their property or extend their lease term under specific conditions. This process is particularly relevant for residential properties held under long leases, providing tenants with greater security and control over their living arrangements. For many leaseholders, enfranchisement represents an opportunity to enhance property value, reduce ground rent, and avoid the uncertainties associated with short lease terms. However, the process can be complex and fraught with legal intricacies, making it essential to seek professional guidance.
Our team has particular expertise in enfranchisement matters, offering expert legal support throughout the entire process. Our dedicated team has extensive experience advising leaseholders on their rights and the requirements necessary to successfully navigate the enfranchisement process. We provide comprehensive services, including assessing eligibility for enfranchisement, negotiating terms with freeholders, and handling all necessary legal documentation.
We understand that every situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, whether you are seeking to extend your lease or purchase the freehold. With our in-depth knowledge of property law and commitment to client success, we aim to empower leaseholders, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes. Trust our experienced team to guide you through the enfranchisement process, providing clarity and peace of mind as you secure your property rights for the future.
Specialising in enfranchisement law
Eligibility assessment
We conduct thorough evaluations to determine whether leaseholders meet the necessary criteria for enfranchisement under the applicable legislation. Our expert team reviews lease terms, property ownership details, and other relevant factors to provide clear guidance on eligibility and next steps in the process.
Lease extension negotiation
We provide expert assistance to clients in negotiating lease extensions with freeholders, focusing on achieving favourable terms and conditions. Our experienced team ensures that leaseholders understand their rights, helping them secure beneficial agreements that enhance property value and long-term security.
Freehold purchase guidance
We provide comprehensive support for leaseholders seeking to acquire the freehold of their property. Our team navigates the complexities of the purchase process, advising on eligibility, necessary documentation, and financial implications, ensuring that clients make informed decisions while maximising their property ownership rights.
Statutory notice preparation
Our team expertly drafts and serves the necessary statutory notices, such as Section 13 and Section 42 Notices, to initiate the enfranchisement process. We ensure that all notices are prepared accurately and delivered within the required timeframes, safeguarding our clients’ legal rights and setting the stage for successful negotiations.
Valuation services
We collaborate with qualified property valuers to determine the appropriate premium for lease extensions or freehold purchases. Our comprehensive valuation services ensure that clients understand the financial aspects of enfranchisement, enabling them to negotiate effectively with freeholders and secure the best possible terms for their property transactions.
Negotiating with freeholders
Acting on behalf of our clients, we negotiate favourable terms with freeholders throughout the enfranchisement process. Our skilled negotiators leverage their in-depth knowledge of property law and market conditions to advocate for our clients’ interests, striving to achieve optimal agreements that enhance property value and security.
Legal documentation
We prepare and review all legal documents related to the enfranchisement process, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. Our approach helps to prevent legal issues down the line, providing clients with peace of mind that their documents are accurate, complete, and aligned with statutory requirements.
Dispute resolution
Our team represents clients in any disputes that may arise during the enfranchisement process, including mediation and court proceedings if necessary. We strive to resolve conflicts efficiently while protecting our clients’ interests, ensuring that they achieve their enfranchisement goals with minimal disruption.
Ongoing legal advice
We offer continuous legal support and advice throughout the enfranchisement process, ensuring that clients are fully informed and protected at every stage. Our team is always available to address questions, clarify options, and provide strategic guidance, empowering clients to make confident decisions.
Post enfranchisement support
Why choose Shakespeare Martineau?
- Our team offer prompt and professional service, whether through in-person meetings or virtual consultations, you can trust that our advice will be timely and professional, helping you feel confident in your legal matters, every step of the way
- We provide advice that is not only pragmatic and quick but also easy to understand. Every lawyer in our firm is approachable, helpful, and committed to offering reliable legal solutions, making the process straightforward for clients
- Our clear and easily understandable approach has kept clients coming back for years, knowing they can depend on us for comprehensive legal support time and time again
- Our clients regularly highlight the exceptional expertise and professionalism of our lawyers. Our team cares deeply about every aspect of your case, ensuring you receive a thorough and attentive service
Strategic solutions, seamless outcomes
We prioritise clear, effective communication and strong problem-solving abilities, enabling us to offer innovative and practical solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. Our team is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes by addressing challenges head-on, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
Accessible support, expert guidance
We pride ourselves on being highly responsive and readily available, ensuring clients can easily reach us whenever they need timely support and expert advice. Our commitment to accessibility means we are there for our clients throughout every step of their enfranchisement journey, providing reassurance and guidance when it matters most.
Strategic enfranchisement, confident outcomes
Our team combines extensive legal expertise with a thorough understanding of the enfranchisement process to offer clients strategic, results-driven advice. We take a proactive approach to anticipate challenges, providing innovative solutions that align with each client’s objectives. With our experience and dedication, we help clients achieve successful outcomes efficiently and confidently.
Meet our enfranchisement team
Gary Ekpenyoung
Partner
Justine Ball
Partner
Martin Edwards
Partner
James Fownes
Partner
Vanessa Joll
Partner
Bukola Obadun-Craigs
Partner
Pia Eames
Legal Director
Habib Khan
Associate
Danielle Sodhi
Team Manager
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Our commitment to sustainability and social impact
We are an accredited B Corporation that is committed to driving positive change in our communities, minimising our impact on the environment, and ensuring an all inclusive diverse and supportive culture for our people.
Wherever you are on your journey, our enfranchisement specialists are here to answer any questions you might have
If you’d like to speak to a member of our team, please fill out the enquiry form. We will aim to reply to your query within 2 hours
Need to talk to someone sooner? You can call use at the number below
Call Us: 0330 024 0333
enfranchisement FAQs
Enfranchisement is the legal process that allows leaseholders to acquire the freehold of their property or extend their lease. It is important because it provides tenants with greater security, potential increases in property value, and reduces ground rent obligations, ultimately empowering leaseholders to have more control over their homes.
Generally, leaseholders who have owned their lease for at least two years and hold a long lease (typically over 21 years) are eligible to enfranchise. Specific criteria can vary based on property type and lease conditions, so it’s advisable to consult with a legal expert to confirm eligibility.
The enfranchisement process typically involves several key steps: assessing eligibility, obtaining a valuation, preparing and serving statutory notices, negotiating with the freeholder, and completing the necessary legal documentation. Each step requires careful attention to detail and adherence to legal requirements, making professional advice essential.
