Leasehold can feel like a minefield. More paperwork. More parties. More chance of delay.
That’s why, when you’re buying or selling an apartment, you need the specialists at
The Apartment Department on your side.
What does leasehold actually mean?
You own the apartment for a set number of years, but not the land beneath it – that belongs to the freeholder.
When you sell, the buyer takes over the remaining term of the lease. If you’re unsure how this affects your move,
speak to our leasehold team at
The Apartment Department.
Why does the lease length matter?
Lease length directly impacts value and mortgage options. Once a lease drops below 80 years,
extending it becomes more expensive and some lenders may say no. We flag this early and help you plan the best route:
sell as is, negotiate a lease extension, or time your move carefully.
Get straight advice from our leasehold experts.
What are ground rent and service charges?
Ground rent is paid to the freeholder for the land. Service charges cover upkeep of
communal areas, buildings insurance and management fees. Buyers and their lenders will want to see clear figures and
recent statements. We make sure the right documents are requested early so your sale doesn’t stall. Want a checklist?
Talk to The Apartment Department.
Do I need an EWS1 form?
If your building has cladding, many lenders will require an EWS1 (External Wall System) form.
No form often means no mortgage offer. We’ll help you confirm whether your block needs one and how to obtain it without
losing time. For cladding queries, start with our leasehold specialists.
Why can leasehold take longer?
There’s more to coordinate: freeholders, managing agents, packs, permissions and timelines. That’s where we’re different.
We chase, check and keep all parties aligned so your transaction keeps moving. If you want fewer headaches and faster progress,
choose Bridges’ Apartment Department.
Do I need a specialist solicitor?
Yes. Leasehold law isn’t the same as freehold. Using a non‑specialist can cost you time and money.
We work with tried‑and‑tested leasehold solicitors who get it right first time.
Ask us for recommendations via The Apartment Department.
Why choose Bridges’ Apartment Department?
Buying or selling a leasehold apartment in Surrey, Hampshire or Berkshire? Work with the team that lives and breathes it.
From EWS1 to lease extensions, from service charge packs
to keeping lenders and solicitors in the loop, we handle the detail so you don’t have to.
Ready to talk? Contact The Apartment Department today.
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