Michael Lever shares his experiences as an expert witness in court cases related to lease renewals. He discusses various legal and procedural challenges encountered during these cases, the importance of objectivity for expert witnesses, and critiques current...
Landlord and Tenant (General)
This section contains material on a number of different landlord and tenant matters. The topics covered can be seen in the contents box on the left. There are also separate specialist landlord and tenant sections in the Update Library on:
How to do a lease renewal- part 7
Appeal on Administration Charge Reasonableness and FTT Cost Rulings in Landlord-Tenant Dispute
Ian Quayle discusses Clemente v Mindmere Ltd (Rev1) [2024] which concerned an appeal on a determination of reasonableness of an administration charge. The landlord had brought a money claim for unpaid service charges and ground rent (the claim expressed as being with...
Upper Tribunal Explores Reasonableness and Rationality in Residential Lease Service Charges
Ian Quayle considers the case of Bradley & Anor v Abacus Land 4 Ltd [2024] which concerned an examination by the Upper Tribunal of reasonableness in the context of service charge and what was meant by acting rationally as required by a residential lease. ...
Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, Part 2
Sarah Thompson-Copsey examines a recent case under Part 2 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. The case addresses opposition on redevelopment ground, specifically s30(1)(f): the landlord’s intention, the extent of the works, and the concept of "holding." Case name,...
How to Do a Lease Renewal – Part 6
In part six of his series on lease renewal, Michael Lever offers guidance on lease renewal negotiations, covering timing strategies in various markets, legal aspects of extending notice periods under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, and factors affecting rent and...
How I Started My Business
Michael Lever recounts his career journey in the property industry, highlighting his decision to become "The Rent Review Specialist," the influence of his father, key career experiences, and his enduring commitment to his profession without plans to retire. ...
Dilapidations – “A Warzone With Grease”
Hannah Bayliss explores a legal dispute between Peachside Limited and former tenants over a dilapidated property in Manchester’s Chinatown. Hannah delves into the arguments and legal principles surrounding the tenants' failure to uphold their repair obligations and...
Landlord and Tenant Act 1954, Part II
Sarah Thompson-Copsey analyses the case of The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea v Mellcraft Ltd [2024], particularly examining its implications regarding the occupation for business purposes and opposition to renewal under s30(1)(g). Case name, reference...
How to Do a Lease Renewal – Part 5
Michael Lever examines tenant alterations in leased agricultural and commercial properties, categorising them into consent-based types. He discusses their impact on rent valuation, lease terms, and legal frameworks, emphasising clear communication and adherence to...