Property Law

Expert Legal Support for Property Matters

Our specialist property law team provides comprehensive and strategic advice for all property-related legal issues. We handle complex residential and commercial transactions for individuals, investors, and businesses across the UK and internationally. Contact us today: 0203 909 8399 | Book a Consultation

What Is Property Law?

Property law encompasses the legal framework governing the acquisition, ownership, management, and disposal of real estate. Our approach recognizes that property matters require both technical legal knowledge and commercial awareness. We provide comprehensive support throughout the property lifecycle, from initial acquisition to development, management, and eventual sale, while protecting your investments and managing risks effectively.

When Do You Need Property Law Support?

You may need property legal assistance when:

Buying or selling residential or commercial property
Extending a lease or acquiring freehold interest
Structuring property investments for tax efficiency
Securing financing for property transactions
Managing disputes with landlords, tenants, or neighbors
Developing land or changing property use

Property Law Services We Provide

Residential Property

Freehold property purchases and sales
Leasehold transactions and assignments
Lease extensions and enfranchisement
New-build property acquisitions
Transfers of equity between owners
Remortgages and secured lending

Commercial Property

Commercial freehold acquisitions and disposals
Commercial lease transactions and management
Investment property portfolio transactions
Development site assembly and disposals
Mixed-use property transactions
Landlord and tenant matters

Property Finance

Senior debt and syndicated facilities
Development and construction financing
Investment property portfolio financing
Refinancing and debt restructuring
Islamic property finance structures
Security documentation and perfection

Property Development

Planning applications and appeals
Section 106 agreements and planning obligations
Rights of light and party wall matters
Development constraints management
Construction contracts and warranties
Plot sales and development financing

Specialist Services

Lease Extension – Strategic advice to maximize lease terms and minimize premiums
Sourcing and Acquisition – Identifying and securing optimal property assets
Property Planning and Development – Navigating complex planning regulations
UK Real Estate Structuring – Tax-efficient investment vehicles for domestic and international clients
Real Estate Financing – Securing optimal funding arrangements for property transactions
Commercial Property – Strategic management of business property portfolios
Residential Conveyancing – CQS-accredited expertise for homebuyers and sellers

Our Approach to Property Law

Transaction Management

We offer comprehensive support throughout property transactions:

Initial property strategy consultation
Comprehensive legal due diligence
Contract negotiation and documentation
Coordination with third-party stakeholders
Completion management and post-completion requirements
Ongoing property advisory services

Dispute Resolution

Our approach to property disputes includes:

Early intervention and risk assessment
Alternative dispute resolution methods
Negotiated settlements when appropriate
Tribunal and court representation
Enforcement of property rights
Strategic dispute management advice

Client Profile

Our Property Clients

We have extensive experience representing:

First-time homebuyers and residential property investors
High-net-worth individuals with property portfolios
Property developers and housebuilders
Commercial landlords and institutional investors
International investors in UK property
Banks and alternative property lenders

Complex Property Matters

Our expertise includes:

Multi-jurisdictional property ownership
Mixed-use development projects
Listed buildings and conservation areas
Properties with planning complexities
Prime and super-prime London properties
Collective property ownership structures

Why Choose Connaught Law

Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accredited
Extensive panel status with major UK mortgage lenders
Specialized expertise across all property sectors
International capability for cross-border transactions
Pragmatic, commercial approach to property matters

Supporting Expertise

Our property lawyers work alongside specialists in:

UK property tax planning
Corporate structuring for property holdings
Property litigation and dispute resolution
Planning and environment law
Construction and projects

Initial Consultation

We offer comprehensive property consultations to:

Assess your property objectives
Review existing property documentation
Identify potential risks and opportunities
Outline legal strategy and timelines
Provide transparent fee estimates

Next Steps

Whatever your property law needs, our specialist team provides the expertise required for successful transactions and resolutions. We understand the importance of timeliness and precision in property matters and offer support throughout the process. Call 0203 909 8399 or Book Online for a professional consultation.

Lease Extension

Extending your lease adds significant value to your leasehold property while eliminating ground rent. Our specialist solicitors secure optimal terms and lower premiums, navigating the statutory process to protect your investment long-term.

Lease Extension: Protecting Your Leasehold Investment

Lease extension is a critical process for leasehold property owners, particularly those with flats or apartments approaching the 80-year mark. With modern leases typically granted for 99-125 years, diminishing lease terms can substantially reduce your property’s marketability and value. Our specialist lease extension solicitors navigate the complex statutory framework to secure your property’s long-term value.

Key Benefits of Lease Extension

Addition of 90 years to your existing lease term
Reduction of ground rent to zero (peppercorn rent)
Significant increase in property value and marketability
Improved mortgage options with longer lease terms
Protection against the marriage value premium (if extended before 80 years remaining)
Enhanced ability to sell your property in the future

Statutory Requirements

Ownership Duration: You must have owned the property for at least two years before applying for a statutory lease extension.
Property Type: The lease must be a “long lease” originally granted for more than 21 years.
Timing Considerations: Critical deadlines apply throughout the process, with strict legal requirements for notices and responses.
Eligibility Exceptions: Properties in cathedral precincts, owned by The National Trust, or provided by charitable housing trusts may be exempt.

The Lease Extension Process

Initial valuation to determine appropriate premium
Serving formal Section 42 Notice on your landlord
Handling the landlord’s Counter-Notice
Negotiating the premium and lease terms
Tribunal representation if terms cannot be agreed
Completion of new lease documentation

Our Specialist Approach

Our dedicated lease extension team combines expert solicitors and surveyors to secure the most favorable terms possible. We provide fixed-fee options with transparent costs, and our experience negotiating with major freeholders ensures we secure lower premiums and advantageous terms. We particularly specialize in helping leaseholders whose properties have less than 80 years remaining, where professional representation delivers the most significant value. Discuss Your Lease Extension Strategy

Sourcing and Acquisition

Strategic business acquisition and sourcing arrangements require specialized legal expertise to navigate complex transactions. Our lawyers structure deals that align with your commercial objectives while managing risk across domestic and international markets.

Sourcing and Acquisition: Strategic Business Growth

Business acquisitions and sourcing arrangements represent critical growth strategies that demand sophisticated legal guidance. Whether you’re pursuing an arm’s length purchase, management buy-out, or complex outsourcing arrangement, our experienced team provides tailored advice to ensure your commercial objectives are achieved while mitigating legal and operational risks.

Acquisition Transaction Types

Share purchases and asset acquisitions
Management buy-outs (MBOs) and buy-ins (MBIs)
Private equity-backed transactions
Cross-border and international acquisitions
Joint ventures and strategic partnerships
Post-acquisition restructuring

Specialized Sourcing Arrangements

Outsourcing: Strategic delegation of business processes to third-party providers, including IT, HR, finance, and facilities management functions with robust service level agreements.
Insourcing: Bringing previously outsourced functions back in-house with appropriate knowledge transfer and transitional arrangements.
Offshoring: Relocating business processes to overseas locations with tailored jurisdictional compliance and operational frameworks.
Shared Services: Consolidating business functions across multiple entities or divisions with appropriate governance and cost allocation structures.
Multi-supplier Ecosystems: Complex service integration arrangements with multiple vendors requiring sophisticated contractual frameworks and service integration mechanisms.

Full Lifecycle Legal Support

Pre-transaction strategy and structuring advice
Due diligence coordination and analysis
Negotiation and drafting of transaction documents
Regulatory compliance and approvals
Post-completion integration support
Contract governance and relationship management

Our Specialist Approach

We begin by thoroughly understanding your business objectives, allowing us to tailor our service accordingly. Our cross-disciplinary team brings together expertise in corporate, commercial, employment, property, and tax law to provide comprehensive transaction support. For complex international transactions, we leverage our network of overseas partners to ensure seamless cross-border execution while maintaining a single point of contact for your convenience. Discuss Your Business Acquisition Strategy Improve Explain

Property Planning and Development

Property development success hinges on navigating complex planning regulations and constraints. Our integrated approach combines planning expertise with commercial awareness to overcome obstacles and maximize development potential across residential and commercial projects.

Property Planning and Development: Maximizing Asset Potential

Successful property development requires strategic navigation of the UK’s complex planning system. We provide integrated legal advice that treats planning not as a discrete legal area but as an essential component of broader commercial property transactions. Our practical, commercially-focused guidance helps investors and developers unlock value while managing regulatory constraints effectively.

Core Planning Services

Planning applications, appeals, and public inquiries
Section 106 agreements and planning obligations
Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) advice and exemptions
Permitted development rights and prior approval applications
Certificate of lawful development applications
Listed building and conservation area consent
Judicial review and statutory challenges

Development Constraints Management

Rights of Light: Assessment of potential infringements, negotiation of release agreements, and implementation of mitigation strategies for challenging urban developments.
Party Wall Matters: Navigation of the Party Wall Act requirements, appointment of surveyors, and resolution of disputes with neighboring properties.
Tree Preservation Orders: Applications for works to protected trees, appeals against refusals, and strategic planning around arboricultural constraints.
Highways Agreements: Section 38 and Section 278 agreements for adoption and alteration of highways, stopping up orders, and rights of way modifications.
Compulsory Purchase: Advising on compensation claims, objections to orders, and strategic response to CPO proposals.

Strategic Planning Support

Due diligence on site acquisitions and development potential
Planning risk assessment and mitigation strategies
Analysis of emerging planning policies and local plans
Modification and discharge of planning conditions
Advice on implications of neighbouring development proposals
Energy and infrastructure project planning

Our Specialist Approach

Our planning team works closely with our property, construction, and environmental specialists to provide holistic advice that addresses all aspects of development projects. We maintain strong relationships with planning consultants, architects, and local authorities, enabling us to navigate complex planning challenges efficiently. For strategic developments, we engage early with stakeholders to identify and resolve potential obstacles before they impact your timeline or profitability. Discuss Your Development Project

UK Real Estate Structuring

Optimizing UK real estate investments requires strategic structuring to maximize tax efficiency and commercial benefits. Our specialist team designs bespoke ownership structures for both domestic and international investors across all property asset classes.

UK Real Estate Structuring: Optimizing Investment Vehicles

The UK property market offers significant opportunities for investors, but capturing maximum value requires sophisticated structuring advice. Our team combines real estate expertise with tax and corporate knowledge to design optimal holding structures that align with your investment objectives, risk profile, and tax position. Early advice is essential to implement the most advantageous structure before acquisition.

Structuring Options for Consideration

Direct ownership (individual or joint names)
UK corporate vehicles and SPVs
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Unit trusts and collective investment schemes
Offshore corporate and trust structures

Tax Implications Across Structure Types

SDLT Considerations: Strategic structuring to manage Stamp Duty Land Tax liabilities, including relief applications, corporate wrapper acquisitions, and phased purchase arrangements.
Income Tax Planning: Optimizing structures for rental income treatment, including corporate rates versus personal rates, deductibility of finance costs, and withholding tax obligations.
Capital Gains Treatment: Planning for eventual disposal, including structuring for available exemptions, reliefs, and deferral opportunities for both UK and international investors.
Inheritance Tax Mitigation: Addressing IHT exposure for non-UK domiciliaries and designing appropriate structures for generational wealth transfer.
Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings: Strategic advice on ATED implications for residential properties held through corporate structures with appropriate exemption planning.

Asset Class Specialization

Commercial office investments
Retail property portfolios
Industrial and logistics assets
Hotel and leisure properties
Residential investment portfolios
Mixed-use development projects

Our Specialist Approach

Our integrated team begins with a thorough understanding of your investment objectives, jurisdictional connections, and existing structures. We conduct comprehensive due diligence and provide clear, practical recommendations that balance tax efficiency with commercial flexibility and compliance requirements. For international investors, we coordinate with your home jurisdiction advisors to ensure the structure works effectively across all relevant tax regimes, creating a seamless investment experience. Discuss Your Investment Structure

Real Estate Financing

Securing optimal real estate financing requires specialized legal expertise to navigate complex lending structures. Our dual perspective representing both lenders and borrowers gives us unique insight to efficiently close deals with favorable terms across all property sectors.

Real Estate Financing: Securing Capital for Property Transactions

Effective real estate financing is fundamental to successful property investment and development. Our dual experience representing both lenders and borrowers gives us unique insight into transaction structures and documentation requirements, enabling efficient deal execution with optimal terms. We provide comprehensive guidance across the full spectrum of real estate finance options for both commercial and residential properties.

Financing Options and Structures

Senior debt facilities and syndicated loans
Mezzanine and subordinated financing
Development and construction financing
Bridge and short-term acquisition loans
Investment property portfolio financing
Refinancing and debt restructuring

Specialized Lending Transactions

Development Finance: Structured facilities with phased drawdowns, cost monitoring protocols, and planning condition satisfaction for residential and commercial developments.
Investment Portfolio Lending: Multi-asset security packages, cross-collateralization arrangements, and covenant structures for income-producing property portfolios.
Acquisition Finance: Time-sensitive funding arrangements with deferred consideration mechanisms and simultaneous exchange/completion capabilities.
Specialist Sector Finance: Tailored lending solutions for hotels, healthcare facilities, student accommodation, and other specialized asset classes with operational components.
Islamic Finance: Shariah-compliant structures including Ijara, Murabaha, and Musharaka arrangements for UK property investments.

Comprehensive Service Coverage

Facility agreement negotiation and documentation
Security package creation and perfection
Title due diligence and report on title preparation
Inter-creditor and subordination arrangements
Property portfolio security management
Post-completion registration and administrative requirements

Our Specialist Approach

Our experienced financing team ensures transactions progress efficiently by anticipating lender requirements and preparing borrowers thoroughly. For complex transactions, we coordinate seamlessly with tax, corporate, and planning specialists to address all aspects of the deal structure. We maintain strong relationships with major banks, alternative lenders, and specialist finance providers, giving our clients access to competitive funding options while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements throughout the process. Discuss Your Property Financing Requirements

Commercial Property

Commercial property transactions require meticulous attention to detail and strategic thinking. Our dedicated conveyancing team delivers pragmatic, jargon-free advice tailored to your specific commercial objectives while proactively addressing potential issues before they impact your transaction.

Commercial Property: Strategic Transaction Management

Commercial property transactions involve complex legal considerations that can significantly impact your business operations and investment returns. Our specialized commercial property team focuses on understanding your unique business objectives to deliver practical, results-driven advice. We pride ourselves on anticipating potential issues and developing proactive solutions that ensure smooth, efficient transactions aligned with your commercial goals.

Core Commercial Property Services

Commercial freehold acquisitions and disposals
Leasehold transactions (new leases, assignments, underleases)
Lease renewals and extensions
Portfolio management and transactions
Development site assembly and disposals
Mixed-use property transactions

Specialized Commercial Expertise

Lease Management: Comprehensive services including grant of new leases, assignments, underleases, surrenders, variations, and break option exercises with strategic advice on lease terms and tenant protections.
Landlord and Tenant Matters: Guidance on ongoing property relationships including service charge arrangements, covenant enforcement, dilapidations claims, rent reviews, and statutory lease renewals.
Investment Transactions: Specialist advice for high-value investment acquisitions and disposals, including multi-let properties, asset management considerations, and income securitization strategies.
Corporate Real Estate: Property aspects of corporate transactions including due diligence, real estate elements of share purchase agreements, and property holdings restructuring.
Joint Ventures: Structuring of property joint ventures with appropriate governance arrangements, funding mechanisms, profit-sharing provisions, and exit strategies.

Transaction Management Approach

Comprehensive initial due diligence and risk assessment
Clear transaction timetables with milestone monitoring
Strategic negotiation of key commercial terms
Proactive identification and resolution of title issues
Coordinated management of third-party stakeholders
Post-completion compliance and registration management

Our Specialist Approach

We recognize that commercial property transactions often involve time-sensitive business decisions. Our responsive team provides clear, commercially-focused advice that cuts through legal complexities to highlight what truly matters for your business. For complex transactions, we assemble cross-disciplinary teams including tax, construction, planning, and environmental specialists to address all aspects of your property deal. Our transparent fee structures and regular progress updates ensure you remain fully informed throughout the transaction process. Discuss Your Commercial Property Transaction

Residential Property

Residential property transactions require meticulous attention to legal detail while maintaining momentum. Our Law Society CQS-accredited team provides comprehensive conveyancing services for UK and international clients, ensuring smooth completions while resolving complex issues efficiently.

Residential Property: Expert Conveyancing Services

Buying or selling residential property represents one of life’s most significant financial transactions. Our dedicated residential conveyancing team combines technical expertise with a pragmatic, client-focused approach to guide you through the process seamlessly. As Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) accredited solicitors, we maintain the highest standards of service, ensuring your transaction completes efficiently while protecting your legal interests.

Comprehensive Residential Services

Freehold property purchases and sales
Leasehold transactions and assignments
New-build property acquisitions
Lease extensions and variations
Transfers of equity between owners
Remortgages and secured lending

Specialized Transaction Types

Off-Plan Purchases: Specialist advice for buying properties before construction completion, including contract safeguards, staged payment structures, and practical completion protocols for both domestic and international buyers.
Leasehold Enfranchisement: Professional guidance through the statutory process of acquiring your freehold, including premium negotiations, managing collective claims, and post-acquisition arrangements.
Investment Properties: Comprehensive support for buy-to-let investors regarding tenancy constraints, mortgage lender requirements, tax considerations, and ongoing landlord obligations.
International Purchases: Tailored services for overseas investors including anti-money laundering compliance, tax residency considerations, and coordinated completion arrangements across time zones.
High-Value Properties: Enhanced due diligence for premium properties, addressing unique considerations including planning restrictions, heritage protections, and complex title arrangements.

Mortgage Lender Panel Access

Approved panel status with major UK lenders
Bank of Ireland, Barclays, HSBC, First Direct
Santander, NatWest, TSB, RBS
Nationwide, M&S, Accord
Help to Buy scheme expertise
Streamlined dual representation process

Our Specialist Approach

We understand the pressures associated with property transactions and prioritize regular client communication throughout the process. Our proactive approach identifies potential issues early, allowing for swift resolution and maintaining transaction momentum. For complex matters, we collaborate seamlessly with our litigation and tax departments to address property disputes, tenant issues, and tax implications for overseas investors. Our committed team has built a loyal client base through reliable service delivery and transparent fee structures, ensuring you always understand exactly where your transaction stands. Discuss Your Residential Property Transaction

Property Law

Expert Legal Support for Property Matters

What Is Property Law?

When Do You Need Property Law Support?

Property Law Services We Provide

Residential Property

Commercial Property

Property Finance

Property Development

Specialist Services

Our Approach to Property Law

Transaction Management

Dispute Resolution

Client Profile

Our Property Clients

Complex Property Matters

Why Choose Connaught Law

Supporting Expertise

Initial Consultation

Next Steps

Specialized Property Law Services

Lease Extension: Protecting Your Leasehold Investment

Key Benefits of Lease Extension

Statutory Requirements

The Lease Extension Process

Our Specialist Approach

Sourcing and Acquisition: Strategic Business Growth

Acquisition Transaction Types

Specialized Sourcing Arrangements

Full Lifecycle Legal Support

Our Specialist Approach

Property Planning and Development: Maximizing Asset Potential

Core Planning Services

Development Constraints Management

Strategic Planning Support

Our Specialist Approach

UK Real Estate Structuring: Optimizing Investment Vehicles

Structuring Options for Consideration

Tax Implications Across Structure Types

Asset Class Specialization

Our Specialist Approach

Real Estate Financing: Securing Capital for Property Transactions

Financing Options and Structures

Specialized Lending Transactions

Comprehensive Service Coverage

Our Specialist Approach

Commercial Property: Strategic Transaction Management

Core Commercial Property Services

Specialized Commercial Expertise

Transaction Management Approach

Our Specialist Approach

Residential Property: Expert Conveyancing Services

Comprehensive Residential Services

Specialized Transaction Types

Mortgage Lender Panel Access

Our Specialist Approach