Replacing windows in a leasehold flat
Leasehold flats are a common form of property ownership in the UK, where the leaseholder owns the flat for a specified period while the freeholder owns the land and building. Lease agreements, which can vary in length, outline the responsibilities and obligations of both parties, including maintenance and repairs.
The responsibility for replacing windows in a leasehold flat largely depends on the terms of the lease agreement. Generally, the freeholder or managing agent is responsible for maintaining the building’s structure and completing exterior repairs, such as painting window frames. Conversely, the leaseholder is typically responsible for repairing parts of their individual property, like window hinges and locks.
Installing or replacing windows can sometimes be categorised as structural alterations, which are defined as changes to a building’s supporting elements, including bearing elements, partitions, columns, beams, and exterior walls. As such, it’s crucial to obtain permission before making any changes.
Before replacing windows in a leasehold flat, you must obtain the necessary planning permissions. This responsibility falls on the flat owner, especially in blocks of flats where no individual flat has Planned Development Rights. Consent from the Freeholder and/or Management Company is often required for alterations, including window replacements. Always check if consent is needed before proceeding with any work.
Leaseholders within a conservation area must obtain permission before replacing windows if their local council has served an Article 4 notice. This notice means property owners must apply directly to their local planning authority to alter their property.
Your property may be subject to an Article 4 notice if it is:
To replace windows in a leasehold flat located within a conservation area, you must first seek double planning permission. This involves ensuring that the window materials comply with Article 4 and that the window design is appropriate.
Before proceeding with window replacements in your leasehold flat, consider the following checklist:
If you notice any issues with your windows, act quickly before the problem becomes severe enough to require a full replacement. This can save you time, effort, and money, as well as minimise disruption within the block.
The planning department of your local council ensures that window designs and materials are consistent throughout blocks of flats. They have the right to make you replace any windows installed without planning permission. Not obtaining proper permissions can lead to a Planning Enforcement Notice, resulting in additional costs for replacement windows and potential disputes with the council.
Though it’s possible to obtain retrospective planning permission for window replacements, this is not the ideal approach. Waiting until you have already spent money on replacements can be risky, even if you try to ensure that the new windows are “in keeping” with the original ones.
In one example, a group of leaseholders in a converted industrial building in Wales faced a change of freeholder and were served with Section 20 notices for major works. The estimated cost for these works exceeded £500,000, with each leaseholder responsible for around £38,000. Upon review, it was determined that repairing the windows was the leaseholders’ responsibility, not the freeholder’s. This discovery ultimately led to savings of approximately £10,000 per leaseholder.
Replacing windows in a leasehold flat can be a complex process, involving various permissions and responsibilities. By understanding the terms of your lease agreement, obtaining necessary permissions, and adhering to conservation area regulations, you can ensure a smooth and successful window replacement process. Always consult with professionals, such as solicitors or property management companies like us at Strangford Management, for further guidance on your specific situation.
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