One of the most common questions leaseholders ask is: who is responsible for repairs in a leasehold flat? The answer can often be confusing, as responsibility is usually split between the leaseholder, the freeholder, and the managing agent.
Understanding who is responsible is essential—not only to avoid disputes, but also to ensure that repairs are carried out promptly and correctly.
In this guide, we explain how repair responsibilities are divided in leasehold properties in the UK, what the law says, and what to do if issues arise.
In a leasehold arrangement, you own your flat for a fixed period under a lease, but not the building or land it sits on. The lease is the key legal document that outlines:
You can learn more about leasehold responsibilities here:
https://www.lease-advice.org/advice-guide/repairing-obligations/
In most cases, leaseholders are responsible for maintaining and repairing everything inside their individual flat.
This typically includes:
Example:
If your kitchen tap is leaking or your flooring is damaged, this would usually be your responsibility.
The freeholder (or management company acting on their behalf) is usually responsible for the structure and communal areas of the building.
This includes:
Example:
If the roof is leaking or there is damage to the building’s structure, the freeholder or managing agent would arrange repairs.
Some areas can fall into a grey area—particularly shared systems.
These may include:
In most cases, these are the responsibility of the freeholder or managing agent, but the cost is recovered through service charges.
Leaks are one of the most common causes of disputes in leasehold properties.
General Rule:
Example:
However, the exact position depends on the lease wording.
Even when the freeholder is responsible for arranging repairs, leaseholders usually contribute to the cost through service charges.
Service charges typically cover:
👉 Learn more about service charges:
https://www.lease-advice.org/advice-guide/service-charges-other-issues/
The Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 sets out key obligations regarding repairs and service charges.
Under this legislation:
Further guidance:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/leasehold-reform-in-england-and-wales
If repairs are delayed or not handled properly, leaseholders have several options:
Raise the issue formally and request updates.
Check who is legally responsible.
Most managing agents have a complaints procedure.
Leaseholders can challenge issues through the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
https://www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals/first-tier-tribunal-property-chamber
Some of the most frequent issues include:
These disputes often arise due to unclear lease wording or poor communication.
At Legacy Block Management, we regularly deal with repair-related queries across the developments we manage.
Some common trends include:
In many cases, issues can be avoided through clear communication and proactive management.
Your lease is the most important document—review it carefully.
Small problems can quickly become major repairs if left unresolved.
Document communication, photos, and reports.
A proactive managing agent helps ensure:
A good block management company will:
Poor management, on the other hand, can lead to:
Understanding who is responsible for repairs in a leasehold flat is essential for both leaseholders and directors. While leaseholders are typically responsible for the interior of their flats, the freeholder or managing agent is usually responsible for the structure and communal areas.
However, the exact responsibilities will always depend on the lease, so it is important to review this carefully.
At Legacy Block Management, we provide clear, proactive, and professional block management services.
We help leaseholders and directors:
Contact us today at www.legacybm.co.uk
