Freeholder charges for "granting permission" to change windows

Tom41London

Hello All,

I rent a 1 bedroom flat in North West London.
I have been renting for more than 10 years, and I have finally convinced my landlord (actually a very nice guy) that upgrading to double-glazing would be beneficial to me but also to the long-term value of his property.

I have just learned however that the Freeholder could be charging quite a sum of money for granting his permission to do so.

Anybody has some idea/experience of how much money we are talking about here ? £10? £100? £1000?

Any comment appreciated!

Many thanks,
Thomas

drdpj

"Groundrent Grazers" to quote (http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm199798/cmhansrd/vo980610/debtext/80610-04.htm).... Depends on the freeholder.

Just as an example, Compton Group:
http://comptongroup.com/our-activities/ground-rents/leased-properties/consent-for-alterations/

Some may want substantially more, or not worried about it at all. Do you know who the freeholder is?

shopbot

I wasn't charged by my Freeholder to grant permission to install Double Glazing. It was literally a case of sending a letter requesting permission and getting a letter granting it back.

On a different note. Are you paying for the Double Glazing? How long is your tenancy agreement? What's to stop you paying for the double glazing and then the Landlord ending you tenancy next time round?

SB

Tom41London

Thanks for the answers! Interesting to see the charges asked for by Compton Group.

1. I am in the process of finding out who the Freeholder is.

2. I am going to renew my lease for another 3 years in March ; hence why I have discussed the possibility of getting double-glazing (4 windows to convert). I have offered to contribute (within reason) to the investment, as well.
Not sure I read SB's last question properly?

shopbot

Tom41London wrote: »

Thanks for the answers! Interesting to see the charges asked for by Compton Group.

1. I am in the process of finding out who the Freeholder is.

2. I am going to renew my lease for another 3 years in March ; hence why I have discussed the possibility of getting double-glazing (4 windows to convert). I have offered to contribute (within reason) to the investment, as well.
Not sure I read SB's last question properly?

I was just concerned that you were funding the full amount of the double glazing! Thanks for replying - I'm glad to see you are not.

I would really do your best to ensure the freeholder doesn't charge you for his consent.

SB