Licence to Alter
A leasehold owner (lessee) may seek to undertake alterations, typically to their property within a purpose-built block; or conversion. This could be either a commercial or residential lessee. The is typically not permitted under the terms of the lease, therefore freeholder consent would be required for the proposed alterations. Many leases use wording such as “consent for alterations may not be unreasonably withheld”. We understand this means consent may be provided conditionally.
The freeholder would be advised to have the proposals reviewed professionally and to put in place a list of conditions which must be followed to protect the building and minimise inconvenience for the other owners and occupiers. As appointed surveyor, we would draft heads of terms for your solicitor to put into a legal agreement known as a ‘Licence to Alter’.
