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Property / The briefing

Buying a leasehold flat: questions to ask

The purchase price is only one part of understanding a leasehold home.

By Eleanor Sterling · · 6 min read

Understand the lease

Ask how long is left on the lease, whether the terms meet your lender's requirements and what restrictions apply. Pets, alterations, subletting and working from home may all be affected. Do not rely on an estate agent's summary in place of a legal review.

Look beyond this year's charges

Review service charges, ground rent provisions, reserve funds and planned major works. Ask about arrears, disputes and the management of the building. A low current service charge is not necessarily good news if maintenance has been deferred.

Ask about the building

Your solicitor should consider the relevant building safety information, insurance and any applicable leaseholder protections. Requirements depend on the building and your circumstances. Ask for important answers in writing before committing to exchange.

General information for England and Wales, reviewed October 2026. This is not advice on your individual circumstances. Rules and guidance may change.

02 / Further reading

A little more perspective.

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