Call Us: 020 8771 5254
Amphlett Lissimore Logo

Back to News

Removal of the two-year ownership rule

Written by

Dona Awano

Published on

January 31, 2025

Earlier this month, Matthew Pennycook, MP for Greenwich and Woolwich and Minister of State for Housing and Planning, signed new regulations to remove the two-year ownership rule for leaseholders of flats and houses to extend their lease or buy their freehold.

These regulations come into effect on the 31 January 2025. This means leaseholders can now extend their lease (or buy the freehold of a house) immediately upon purchasing a leasehold property, instead of having to wait two years.

This change in regulation is part of the bigger project of implementing the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act. Posting on X, Mr Pennycook said: “The work continues to switch on the measures in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act.”

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 will take time for all aspects to be put into force as many parts need regulations drafted or further consultation. However, the removal of the two-year rule is very much seen as a positive step forward and an affirmation of the Government’s determination to honour their commitment to bring the leasehold system to an end.

This commitment was confirmed by Housing Secretary, Angela Rayner who said when questioned by the housing communities and local government committee; “we want to do that within this year – bring forward the legislation”.

Further reading

LPA – More important than your Will?

January 31, 2025

Could sorting your Lasting Powers of Attorney be more important than writing a Will? Judith Hurle, a Will Executive at our West Wickham office, discusses the merits of obtaining Lasting Powers of Attorney sooner rather than later.

Read More

Is family mediation legally binding?

January 30, 2025

Family mediation is seen as a cost-effective route for a couple who are separating to discuss and agree on their financial and child arrangements. But is family mediation legally binding? Can a court order me to participate in Family Mediation? Accredited Family Mediator, Sam O’Dwyer discusses MIAMs and the legalities of family mediation. What is […]

Read More

Estella Newbold-Brown listed in Citywealth’s Top 75 Family Lawyers List 2025

January 23, 2025

This week, Citywealth magazine released its 2025 list of Top 75 Family Lawyers in the UK’s ...

Read More

Claire Pays promoted to Partner at Amphlett Lissimore

May 28, 2024

We are pleased to announce that Claire Pays from our West Wickham office has been ...

Read More