I am on look out for some leasehold conveyancing in Stockport. Before diving in I would like to find out the unexpired term of the lease.

If the lease is registered - and almost all are in Stockport - then the leasehold title will always include the basic details of the lease, namely the date; the term; and the original parties. From a conveyancing perspective such details then enable any prospective buyer and lender to confirm that any lease they are looking at is the one relevant to that title.For any other purpose, such as confirming how long the term was granted for and calculating what is left, then the register should be sufficient on it's own.

My husband and I may need to let out our Stockport 1st floor flat temporarily due to a new job. We used a Stockport conveyancing firm in 2004 but they have since shut and we did not have the foresight to seek any advice as to whether the lease prohibits the subletting of the flat. How do we find out?

Your lease governs relations between the freeholder and you the flat owner; specifically, it will set out if subletting is banned, or permitted but only subject to certain conditions. The rule is that if the lease contains no expres ban or restriction, subletting is permitted. The majority of leases in Stockport do not contain strict prohibition on subletting – such a clause would undoubtedly devalue the property. Instead, there is usually a basic requirement that the owner notifies the freeholder, possibly sending a copy of the tenancy agreement.

I am hoping to put an offer on a small detached house that seems to meet my requirements, at a great price which is making it more attractive. I have just found out that the title is leasehold as opposed to freehold. I would have thought that there are particular concerns buying a leasehold house in Stockport. Conveyancing solicitors have are soon to be appointed. Will they explain the issues?

Most houses in Stockport are freehold and not leasehold. In this scenario it’s worth having a local conveyancer used to dealing with such properties who can help the conveyancing process. We note that you are purchasing in Stockport so you should seriously consider looking for a Stockport conveyancing practitioner and check that they are used to dealing with leasehold houses. First you will need to check the number of years remaining. As a tenant you will not be at liberty to do whatever you want to the property. The lease comes with conditions such as obtaining the freeholder’spermission to conduct alterations. You may also be required to pay a maintenance charge towards the upkeep of the estate where the house is located on an estate. Your solicitor should advise you fully on all the issues.

What are your top tips when it comes to choosing a Stockport conveyancing firm to deal with our lease extension?

If you are instructing a property lawyer for your lease extension (regardless if they are a Stockport conveyancing firm) it is most important that he or she should be familiar with the legislation and specialises in this area of work. We suggested that you make enquires with several firms including non Stockport conveyancing practices before you instructing a firm. Where the conveyancing practice is ALEP accredited then that’s a bonus. Some following of questions might be useful:

• Can they put you in touch with client in Stockport who can give a testimonial?

All being well we will complete the sale of our £400000 flat in Stockport next Wednesday . The landlords agents has quoted £324 for Landlord’s certificate, insurance certificate and previous years service charge statements. Is it legal for a freeholder to charge exorbitant fees for a leasehold conveyance in Stockport?

Stockport conveyancing on leasehold apartments often necessitates the buyer’s lawyer sending enquiries for the landlord to address. Although the landlord is not legally bound to answer these enquiries most will be willing to do so. They are entitled invoice a reasonable charge for answering questions or supplying documentation. There is no upper cap for such fees. The average fee for the paperwork that you are referring to is £350, in some cases it is above £800. The administration charge invoiced by the landlord must be accompanied by a summary of rights and obligations in relation to administration fees, otherwise the invoice is not strictly payable. In reality one has little choice but to pay whatever is requested of you should you wish to complete the sale of your home.

Leasehold Conveyancing in Stockport - Sample of Questions you should ask before buying

Its a good idea to find out as much as possible concerning the company managing the block as they will impact your use and enjoyment of the property. As the owner of a leasehold property you are often at the mercy of the managing agents both financially and when it comes to practical issues such as the cleanliness of the common parts. Enquire of prospective neighbours whether they are happy with their service. Finally, be sure you understand the dates that you are obliged pay the service charge to the managing agents and specifically what it includes. It is important to be aware if changing the roof or some other significant cost is coming up that will be shared amongst the tenants and will materially increase the the service charges or result in a one time payment. Be sure to enquire if there is anything that is prohibited in the lease. For example it is reasonably common in Stockport leases that pets are not permitted in certain buildings in Stockport. If you like the propertyin Stockport however your dog is not allowed to make the move with you then you have a very difficult choice.

Other Topics

Lease Extensions in Stockport