Leaseholder responsibility for the roof repairs?

Tasha89

Hi there 

I am after some advice, first time homeowner in London after some advice (who wish wishes they could afford freeholder but had to settle for leasehold in hindsight). So the survey said the loft hatch was painted shut but to my surprise there are squirrels in the loft. I own the first floor maisonette and it includes a loft but the my lease says in the description of the flat, "excludes any part or parts of the Building (other than any conduits expressly included) lying above the said surfaces of the ceilings or below the said surfaces of the floor". To my understanding the holes in the roof of loft are not responsibility - the management company whose name I will not include (as I am considering legal action if the complaint is not resolved) is not taking responsibility. I'd appreciate some advice on how to proceed, the management company are a nightmare. 

Natasha 

user1977

So what does your lease actually say about the repairing responsibility for the roof?

Slithery

If it does turn out to be the freeholders responsibility then they will have to do the work but you'll end up having to pay for it...

canaldumidi

The clause you quote simply defines the boundaries of what you own in your lease. It does not define the repairing responsibilities for the building.

Please quote the relevant repairing responsibilities.

Norman_Castle

What repairs are needed? Many roofs will have gaps which could be accessed by a squirrel. From inside the loft make sure there are no squirrels then block the holes with wire mesh. Much quicker and easier than "legal action" and cheaper than paying someone to find someone to block the holes..

I'd focus on ensuring the loft is properly insulated, far more beneficiall to you than arguing about squirrels.