A lease extension is one of the most important steps you can take to protect the long-term value and marketability of a leasehold property. As the remaining term of a lease decreases, so does the property’s value—and once it drops below 80 years, the cost of extending it rises considerably due to the addition of “marriage value.” This threshold often catches leaseholders by surprise, but acting early can save thousands of pounds and prevent difficulties when selling or remortgaging. A professional valuation is essential for navigating the process confidently and ensuring that the premium you pay, or receive, is fair and accurate.
Why Lease Length Matters
The length of your lease directly affects your property’s desirability, eligibility for lending, and resale value. Many mortgage lenders are reluctant to finance properties with short leases, which can significantly reduce the number of potential buyers should you wish to sell. Extending the lease restores long-term security and can enhance the value of the property by removing uncertainty for future purchasers.
When the lease drops below 80 years, “marriage value” becomes payable, increasing the premium required to extend. This reflects the added value created once the lease is lengthened. Understanding how this value is calculated—and how it affects your position—is crucial when entering into negotiations with the freeholder.
A formal, expert valuation ensures that your extension premium is grounded in evidence, compliant with statutory requirements, and reflective of true market conditions.
Professional RICS-Compliant Valuations and Clear Guidance
We provide RICS-compliant valuations for both statutory (under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993) and informal lease extensions. Our reports are detailed, transparent, and designed to support negotiations with freeholders, managing agents, or legal advisers.
Each valuation includes:
- The premium payable or receivable
- A breakdown of valuation methodology
- Comparable market evidence
- Assessment of current lease length and ground rent
- Consideration of marriage value where applicable
- Clear explanation of statutory rights and responsibilities
This structured approach ensures accuracy and confidence throughout the process. Whether you are a leaseholder seeking to extend your lease or a freeholder responding to a claim, we provide impartial expertise to help you achieve a fair outcome.
We also support you in understanding the difference between statutory and informal routes, advising on which path offers better long-term protection based on your situation.
Supporting Leaseholders and Freeholders Through Every Stage
Lease extension valuations can be complex, involving specialist calculations and legislation that many property owners are unfamiliar with. We guide you through each stage, explaining your rights, responsibilities, and the financial implications involved. Our goal is to make the process clear, manageable, and fully informed, allowing you to proceed with confidence.
Whether the property is your home or part of an investment portfolio, a well-handled lease extension helps secure its value for the future.
Interested in a Lease Extension Valuation?
If your lease is approaching 80 years—or you simply want clarity on your options—now is the ideal time to arrange a professional valuation. Get in touch with our team today to discuss your circumstances, request a quotation, or book a lease extension valuation. We’re here to provide expert guidance and accurate reporting to support you through the entire process.