A leaseholder is someone who owns a property on a leasehold basis. This means you have purchased the right to live in your property for a set number of years, but we retain ownership of the land and communal areas. Your lease agreement outlines your rights and responsibilities, as well as those of us.
Reporting Repairs
House Leasehold: You are responsible for all repairs and maintenance in your home.
Flat Leasehold: Your lease will detail which repairs you are responsible for and which are covered by The Pioneer Group. Typically, you are responsible for the interior of your home.
Insurance
Buildings Insurance: The Pioneer Group insures the building on your behalf, and the cost is included in your service charges. If you need to make a claim, you will be responsible for paying the excess. While we arrange the cover, claims must be made directly with the insurer.
Contents Insurance: It is your responsibility to insure your personal belongings.
Changes to Building Insurance: We aim to secure the best value by entering into long-term agreements. If changes are made, we may conduct a Section 20 Consultation to inform leaseholders.
Service Charges
Service charges depend on the type of property you live in and are typically reviewed annually in April.
Your charges cover the estimated costs for the upcoming year, with an adjustment made after the end of the service charge year (usually in September) based on actual costs.
If you pay service charges, we will provide clear information on how they are calculated.
If your rent or service charge changes, you will receive an annual review letter detailing the new amount to pay.
Section 20 Consultation & Major Works
Major Works: Buildings require essential maintenance, such as roof repairs or updating communal systems. If a leaseholder’s share of these works exceeds £250, we must consult you before proceeding.
Long-term Agreements: Contracts lasting over 12 months, with costs exceeding £100 per leaseholder per year, require consultation.
Consultation Process: Leaseholders will receive a Notice of Intention detailing planned works, cost estimates, and an opportunity to provide feedback. Under certain conditions, leaseholders may nominate contractors.
Quality Assurance: Our Asset Management Team ensures work is completed to a high standard. If you experience issues, contact your Homeownership and Commercial Property Officer.
Lease Extensions & Purchasing the Freehold
Extending Your Lease: If you own a leasehold property, you may be able to extend your lease by 99 years.
Purchasing the Freehold: You may have the opportunity to purchase the freehold of your property. Contact the Homeownership and Commercial Property Officer for eligibility details.
For further assistance, please contact us at 0121 748 8100