Why is a Lawyer Necessary for Collective Enfranchisement?
So, you've decided the time is right to apply for collective enfranchisement. You've checked your eligibility; you've spoken to the other tenants in your block and set up a committee. All agree to go ahead, win control over management of services and get the enfranchisement sorted.
Then you begin to wonder if you could cut the costs down by getting this done, without a lawyer. Everyone nods in agreement; lawyers are expensive and having read up on the right to enfranchise, it seems a fairly straightforward process.
What will a lawyer do that a reasonably intelligent person can't do by themselves?
A solicitor will prepare and serve the original notice on the freeholder. This legally transfers the freehold into a new company set up for the purpose; he or she will then prepare a new lease.
Well, a surveyor's valuation report to value the freehold will be necessary. Ok, not too much bother there, you might think. Wait! You may run into difficulties if the landlord is uncooperative and having a qualified lawyer by your side will be essential. There will be additional legal costs incurred in an application to the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal for such matters to be sorted out but it will be worth it and avoid a lot of stress and anxiety.
There are also the agreements with the other flat owners who are part of the enfranchisement. They will need to have written documents prepared setting out their contributions and entitlement to new leases.
What about legal payments to the landlord? Yes, he will deserve payment of any reasonable costs, including his freehold