Recent comments from Angela Rayner on strengthening controls over leasehold management reflect a growing momentum for reform — and rightly so. Many leaseholders have faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly following the cladding crisis uncovered after the Grenfell tragedy. The financial and emotional toll has been substantial, with some owners unable to sell their homes and facing large, unexpected costs.

Ground rents and service charges have also come under increasing scrutiny. In some cases, practices have clearly crossed the line — such as landlords taking commissions on insurance — and these are areas where tighter regulation is both justified and necessary.

However, the broader debate is more nuanced than headlines often suggest.

Ground rents, for example, are now widely criticised, and banning them on new leases is a logical step. But retrospectively altering existing agreements raises important questions. Many freeholds have been purchased by investors, pension funds, and institutions based on long-term income expectations. Changing those terms could have wider financial implications that cannot be ignored.

It’s also worth recognising that lease agreements are not hidden documents. Buyers should be made fully aware of what they are signing up to — although, in reality, there have been cases where terms were not properly explained, particularly with escalating ground rents.

Service charges are another area often misunderstood. Contrary to popular belief, landlords are not free to charge what they wish. Under Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, strict consultation rules apply for major works, giving leaseholders a clear voice and protection against excessive costs.

That said, there is clear room for improvement — particularly around managing agents. Greater regulation, professional standards, and accountability would significantly improve outcomes for leaseholders.

Finally, one of the biggest frustrations remains the sales process. The lack of regulation around management packs (LPE1 forms), fees, and response times continues to delay transactions unnecessarily. Reform in this area could make a meaningful difference almost immediately.

Leasehold reform is needed — but it must be balanced, considered, and fair to all parties involved.