Long leaseholder problems?

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by Readers Question

12:04 AM, 4th August 2023, 3 years ago 2

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Hello, I have a long lease on a purpose-built flat in London which I occupy. Other flats in the block have been let by their leaseholders on ASTs. The block has become very rundown and requires extensive work. Some of the ’renters’ (those with an AST) have complained to the local council about the conditions and the LA have taken action under the Housing Act 2004 as they view the disrepair as a Category 1 or 2 hazard.

I also complained but was told by the LA that they wouldn’t help as I was a long leaseholder. Is there an exemption in the legislation that allows this? I thought under Part 1 of the Act LAs had a duty to investigate any complaints. I have discovered that Islington, Hackney, and Camden take the same position: are there others who wash their hands of similar problems long leaseholders may have?

Thanks,

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Tags: Housing Act 2004, leaseholder, Local Authority, long leaseholder

Comments

Kizzie Read Full Bio

Member Since October 2022 - Comments: 410

10:46 AM, 4th August 2023, About 3 years ago

Hi
Do you own a share of the freehold reversion interest in a Residents Man Co ?

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Judith Wordsworth Read Full Bio

Member Since January 2015 - Comments: 1450 - Articles: 1

11:08 AM, 4th August 2023, About 3 years ago

The Council and other bodies won’t care as you are not renting your flat.
Who is the freeholder?
Have you not complained in writing to your Freeholder and listed works which require attention?

Any works if not done wold invalidate the buildings insurance? Worth pointing that out to the freeholder!

Has the freeholder abided by their obligations in your lease? ie your lease will state how many years between internal redecorations, how many years between external redecorations. Other freeholder maintenance obligations including who is responsible for what to.
Do you own a share of the freehold?
How many flats are there?

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