Freeholder failure to complete asbestos declaration on form LPE?
I recently purchased a leasehold flat. During the process, the freeholder incorrectly completed the Leaseholder Property Enquiry(LPE) form, stating asbestos was not present.
In fact, it has been established by survey/laboratory confirmation that it exists in an archway that I am financially responsible for.
My beef is that by entering n/a on the form LPE, I was deprived of my right to enter into negotiations with the vendor to reflect the potential ongoing exposure to costs in association with asbestos. I have already been able to get the charge for painting over the asbestos waived. I would not have proceeded with the purchase without securing a reduction of £5000 to reflect my exposure to future/further expenditure in respect of the asbestos.
I have now raised a compensation claim of £4500 against the freeholder who deprived me of my rights.
Any thoughts, advice, legal cases, etc., welcome.
Kevin
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10:54 AM, 16th January 2026, About 9 months ago
AI search says that answers on LPE form must be accurate and if not eg not revealing existence of asbestos , then the landlord or management co who must complete the form in case of purchase of leasehold flat can face legal and financial issues.
It may be that the leaseholder didn’t know because the management co. kept quiet about it.
Your conveyancer should have told you of your legal rights regarding LPE and who has to complete the form