WARRINGTON South MP Sarah Hall has called for urgent action from the Government and to deliver on Leasehold Reform to protect homeowners.
It follows a promise from the Government to reform the leasehold system, ensuring that millions of leaseholders across the country, including many in Warrington South, are provided with the security, fairness, and protections they deserve.
The North West has the second highest proportion of leasehold dwellings in the UK with 32% of dwellings categorised as leasehold second only to London. Many homeowners in areas like Chapelford are affected.
In a question to the Minister for Housing and Planning in Parliament last week, Ms Hall pressed for clarity on when leaseholders can expect legislation to make enfranchisement easier, quicker, and more affordable.
In addition to legislative changes, Ms Hall has advocated for greater transparency around service charges and enhanced regulation of managing agents. She welcomed the Government’s plan to consult on these issues and stressed the need for the new Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill to address the concerns of existing leaseholders trapped in unfair arrangements.
The Government has committed to ending the feudal leasehold system and is enacting the remaining Law Commission recommendations on leasehold enfranchisement and the Right to Manage, tackling unregulated and unaffordable ground rents, and removing the threat of forfeiture, which leaseholders can lose their home.
Ms Hall said:“Last week, I met with constituents to discuss the leasehold scandal and how it is affecting them and their families.
“The Labour Government has made clear its commitment to act swiftly to enact the necessary changes, but leaseholders need assurance that these promises will be fulfilled without delay.
“Households in Warrington South and across the country cannot wait any longer for relief from this broken system.
“The current leasehold system is outdated, unfair, and causes undue stress for families who fear that every letter they get in the post might bring unexpected charges.
“I am pleased that the Minister has committed to providing homeowners with greater rights, powers and protections over their homes.
“Homeownership should be a source of pride and stability, not a cause of anxiety and financial strain.
“I will continue to fight for meaningful reforms to ensure that homeowners in Warrington South and beyond are treated with the fairness and respect they deserve”.