The department represents Landlords and Tenants in the context of groups of Tenants wishing to acquire the freehold of their buildings.   Such buildings can range from converted house with a few flats to purpose built block with many flats. The acquisition can either be by way of agreement between Landlord and Tenant or, alternatively, in the context of applications under the Leasehold Reform Housing and Urban Development Act 1993.  The Department acts for Landlord and Tenants in pursuing and responding to such applications and representing the parties at the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal in the event that agreement cannot be reached.

The Department also deals with Appeals to the Upper Chamber (previously the Lands Tribunal) and all associated matters.

Usually most cases are settled by negotiation and we are always mindful of the need for Landlords and Tenants not to incur unnecessary costs.

As with lease extensions, if some or all of leases in the block are shortly due to go below 80 years, lessees should take advice immediately.