Extending Your Lease in Brighton & Hove – What You Need to Know
If you own a leasehold flat in Brighton or Hove, extending your lease is a vital step to protect the value of your property and avoid rising costs. In this guide, I’ll explain the lease extension process, typical costs, and why acting before your lease drops below 80 years is so important.
Why Extend Your Lease in Brighton & Hove?
Brighton & Hove has a high concentration of leasehold flats, especially in areas like Kemptown, Hove Lawns, and the seafront. Many of these flats were originally sold on 99-year leases, and if your lease is approaching or has dipped below 80 years, you may encounter difficulties when selling or remortgaging.
Extending your lease early can help you:
Avoid marriage value (a significant cost added once your lease drops below 80 years)
Reduce or eliminate ground rent liabilities
Increase your property’s market appeal and long-term value
How Does the Lease Extension Process Work?
Eligibility – Following 2023 reforms, you no longer need to have owned the flat for 2 years. Most leaseholders now qualify for a lease extension under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 immediately upon purchase.
Valuation – A formal lease extension valuation is required to calculate the premium payable. This is where an experienced lease extension surveyor in Brighton is essential.
Serve Notice – A formal Section 42 notice is served on the freeholder proposing terms.
Negotiation – The freeholder may respond with a counter-notice, after which a period of negotiation follows.
Agreement & Completion – Once terms are agreed, solicitors finalise the new lease through completion.
How Much Does a Lease Extension Cost in Brighton?
Costs vary depending on your lease length, ground rent, property value, and whether you're above or below the 80-year threshold. Typical components include:
Premium payable to the freeholder
Surveyor’s valuation fee
Legal fees (yours and a contribution to the freeholder’s)
Land Registry and potential tribunal costs if terms can’t be agreed
At Olden Property, we regularly carry out lease extension valuations in Brighton & Hove and help guide clients through the process. We also work closely with local lease extension solicitors to ensure smooth progression.
Common Questions
What if I have less than 80 years left?
You’ll likely need to pay marriage value, which can significantly increase the premium. Acting early helps avoid this additional cost.
Can I extend my lease if I haven’t owned the flat for 2 years?
Yes. Since 2023, you can start the statutory lease extension process immediately after purchasing your flat – there is no longer a 2-year ownership requirement.
How do I find the best lease extension surveyor in Brighton?
Look for a RICS-registered valuer with specialist leasehold reform knowledge and local experience. At Olden Property, we focus on lease extension valuations across the South East, with deep understanding of the Brighton & Hove market.
Whether you’re based in Preston Park, Hanover, Seven Dials, or central Hove, extending your lease is a smart move to preserve and enhance your property's value. If you’re unsure how many years are left on your lease or whether now is the right time to act, we’d be happy to review your case and provide tailored advice.
Ready to extend your lease?
Get in touch today for a no-obligation quote or advice on your next steps.