for extra fees, such as surprise major works bills. They also complain that they are rarely consulted on maintenance work or the choice of contractors.
Campaigners argue that more transparency and consultation would help avoid mistrust, and ensure that leaseholders are being charged fairly and only for necessary work.
One solution is for property developers to offer property buyers the option of purchasing the freehold at the point of sale. Some have already done so, and Taylor Wimpey has pledged to offer this option to all current leaseholders, with an offer of a minimum 10% discount.
But that doesn’t help those who already own a leasehold property, and might not be able to afford to buy the freehold or extend their lease. The government has pledged to reform the system, and there may be some hope that this latest consultation will bring about real change.
“We’ll see what happens over the next year,” says Michele McInroy. “I just hope that they will listen and act.”
