Boodle Hatfield Property Insights, Summer 2026 - Flipbook - Page 5
Boodle Hat昀椀eld
Property Insights
There is also renewed momentum behind the
introduction or “reinvigoration” of the commonhold
regime. The draft Commonhold and Leasehold Bill
published in early 2026 forms part of a wider plan to
make commonhold the default tenure for new 昀氀ats, and
an optional conversion for existing leaseholds.
Under the proposed modernised regime, unit owners
would hold freehold commonhold interests and
collectively manage shared areas through a commonhold
association. The proposals build on earlier Law
Commission recommendations and aim to address
previous barriers to take-up. For commercial investors,
particularly those involved in mixed-use developments,
this could complicate management structures and
reduce traditional control. More broadly, it raises
questions for those relying on long leasehold income
streams.
For more information see:
•
Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Bill
Simon Kerrigan, Real Estate Partner
Looking ahead
Whilst no single reform is likely to transform the
commercial property market, the developments
outlined above collectively re昀氀ect a clear direction of
travel towards greater regulation, transparency and
accountability across the sector.
From rent review reform and enhanced disclosure
obligations to more demanding energy ef昀椀ciency
standards, increased security requirements and
signi昀椀cant leasehold reform, property owners are
operating within an increasingly complex legal and
regulatory framework.
Although the timing and 昀椀nal form of a number of these
measures remain uncertain, owners, investors and
developers should remain mindful of their cumulative
effect and ensure that they are able to adapt and
respond to the evolving legislative landscape.
This document is intended to provide a 昀椀rst point of reference for current developments in aspects of the law. It should not be
relied on as a substitute for professional advice. If advice on a particular circumstance is required please contact your Boodle
Hat昀椀eld lawyer.
Andrew Wilmot-Smith
Partner and Head of Property
+44 (0)20 7079 8138
awilmot-smith@boodlehat昀椀eld.com
Boodle Hat昀椀eld LLP
240 Blackfriars Road, London, SE1 8NW, DX 53 Chancery Lane
+44 (0)20 7629 7411 | bh@boodlehat昀椀eld.com | www.boodlehat昀椀eld.com
© Boodle Hat昀椀eld LLP 2026. Boodle Hat昀椀eld is not authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 but we are able in certain
circumstances to offer a limited range of investment services under the supervision of and regulation by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We
can provide these investment services if they are an incidental part of the professional services we have been engaged to provide.
