Ground Rent: Understanding Your Financial Obligations as a Leaseholder or Shared Owner

This section aims to provide you with a clear overview of ground rent, its purpose, and the obligations it entails.

What is Ground rent?

Ground rent is a regular payment made by leaseholders or shared owners to the landlord or freeholder of the property. It is a condition outlined in the lease agreement and represents the cost of occupying the land on which the property is built. Ground rent is typically a fixed amount, and the frequency of payment can vary, such as annual, semi-annual, or quarterly payments.

Purpose of ground rent

• Land ownership: The payment of ground rent acknowledges that the landlord or freeholder retains ownership of the land on which the property stands. While leaseholders or shared owners have the right to occupy and enjoy the property, the land itself remains under the ownership of the landlord.
• Property maintenance: Ground rent contributes to the ongoing maintenance and management of the overall property and communal areas. It helps cover the costs associated with upkeep, repairs, and the general well-being of the development.
• Leaseholder and Shared Owner services: Ground rent may also contribute to the provision of services and amenities for leaseholders and shared owners. These services can include communal area maintenance, building insurance, estate management, and other shared facilities.

Ground Rent and Shared Ownership

If you are a shared owner, your ground rent is typically a proportionate amount based on the share you own in the property. This means that the ground rent payable may be lower compared to a leaseholder who owns 100% of the property.

Understanding Ground rent reviews

In some lease agreements, there may be provisions for ground rent reviews. These reviews allow the landlord to adjust the ground rent at specified intervals during the lease term. The review process varies and can involve fixed increases, market-based adjustments, or other agreed-upon methods. It's important to review your lease agreement to understand if and how ground rent reviews may apply to your situation.