Hi Everyone, I'm really hoping there's someone able to help me! I would massively appreciate any advice!
I sent an e-mail on 19th January for a license to alter (I am a leaseholder of a flat in East Sussex). The freeholder (a company) has not responded at all despite me chasing every week, sometimes multiple times. It has now been 12.5 weeks and still nothing.
To note: I am e-mailing my building management company who e-mail the freeholder. I have had responses from building management who just say they are continuing to chase.
I am also slightly concerned about the wording in my lease (which is from 1977) as it states 'The Lessee shall not make any alternations or additions in or to the premises' so nothing mentioned about 'without consent'.
The works: I'd like to knock down some non bear loading walls, move the kitchen to another room, and add French doors leading out to the courtyard (the doors would be exactly the same width as the current window). These would all be done but a professional build and design company, and I had an architect draw up plans for me which were passed onto the freeholder. The works would only take 1-week.
I've thought about taking them to a small claims court but it looks really complicated and quite expensive, and it feels so excessive going down this route.
Does anyone have any advice at all? If I'm being unreasonable and not giving them enough time, then please let me know that as well! This is the first flat I've owned and knew I would have to get approval, but I thought there may be a little back and forth trying to work out something that works for everyone - not just being totally ignored by them.
Thanks so so much! Emily
I sent an e-mail on 19th January for a license to alter (I am a leaseholder of a flat in East Sussex). The freeholder (a company) has not responded at all despite me chasing every week, sometimes multiple times. It has now been 12.5 weeks and still nothing.
To note: I am e-mailing my building management company who e-mail the freeholder. I have had responses from building management who just say they are continuing to chase.
I am also slightly concerned about the wording in my lease (which is from 1977) as it states 'The Lessee shall not make any alternations or additions in or to the premises' so nothing mentioned about 'without consent'.
The works: I'd like to knock down some non bear loading walls, move the kitchen to another room, and add French doors leading out to the courtyard (the doors would be exactly the same width as the current window). These would all be done but a professional build and design company, and I had an architect draw up plans for me which were passed onto the freeholder. The works would only take 1-week.
I've thought about taking them to a small claims court but it looks really complicated and quite expensive, and it feels so excessive going down this route.
Does anyone have any advice at all? If I'm being unreasonable and not giving them enough time, then please let me know that as well! This is the first flat I've owned and knew I would have to get approval, but I thought there may be a little back and forth trying to work out something that works for everyone - not just being totally ignored by them.
Thanks so so much! Emily
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