Daily Politics from the New Statesman Do leasehold reforms go far enough?
Jan 28, 2026
Will Dunn, journalist specialising in political and housing issues, explains why leasehold reform matters to millions. He outlines ground rent caps, bans on new leasehold flats, and the political and legal hurdles that make change slow. The conversation explores marriage value, building-safety costs, and whether proposed measures will hold up against vested interests.
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Personal Costs Of Building Works
- Anoush Chakelian recounts her own block's disruptive building works that lower property value while freeholders profit.
- She describes being charged higher insurance and losing control despite technically 'owning' her flat.
Ownership Perception Versus Legal Reality
- Leaseholders psychologically feel they don't truly own their homes because they lack control over roof, walls and major decisions.
- Will Dunn notes this mismatch fuels the 'feudal' framing and public anger.
Cap Is Symbolic And Delayed
- Labour will cap ground rents at £250 but implementation is delayed until 2028.
- Will Dunn warns the delay punts the hardest issues into the next parliament and risks being headline-focused rather than structural.
