Other Blogs
Section 20 Notices Explained: What Do They Mean for Leasehold Property Owners?
Website blog for Trusted Conveyancing Limited.
What is a Section 20 notice?
A Section 20 notice relates to the consultation process that a landlord generally has to follow before carrying out certain major works where the cost to any individual leaseholder will be more than £250.
The process comes from Section 20 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985. Its purpose is to give leaseholders information about proposed works and an opportunity to make observations before the works proceed.
Examples of works that could potentially
trigger the process include:
• Roof repairs or replacement
• External building repairs
• Replacement windows
• Major decoration
• Lift replacement or substantial repairs
• Repairs to communal areas
• Other significant maintenance or improvement works
The exact position will depend on the circumstances, the lease and the type of works involved.
Why might a Section 20 notice be important?
The biggest reason is cost.
Major works can result in a significant service-charge bill for leaseholders. Buyers of leasehold property should find out whether major works are planned before they purchase, because they could become responsible for contributing towards those costs after completion.
For example, imagine you are buying a flat for £250,000. You discover during the conveyancing process that the building's roof is due to be replaced and a Section 20 consultation has started.
Your purchase price may still be £250,000, but there could also be a future contribution towards the roof works.
That is why leasehold enquiries are such an important part of the conveyancing process.
What happens during a Section 20 consultation?
The process can involve more than one stage.
Stage 1 – Notice of Intention
The landlord normally sends a Notice of Intention explaining the proposed works
and why they are considered necessary. Leaseholders generally have an
opportunity to make written observations and, in relevant circumstances,
nominate a contractor. The consultation period is generally 30 days.
Stage 2 – Notice of Proposal
For a standard two-stage consultation, the landlord then provides further
information about the proposed works and estimates. This can include details of
the proposed contract and the estimated contribution payable by leaseholders.
Leaseholders generally have another opportunity to make written observations,
again normally within 30 days.
Stage 3 – Award of the contract
In some circumstances, a further notice is required explaining who has been
awarded the contract and why. This is not required in every situation, as
exceptions can apply.
What if you receive a Section 20 notice?
Don't ignore it.
If you are a leaseholder and receive a
Section 20 notice, read it carefully and make sure you understand:
• What work is proposed
• Why the work is required
• The estimated cost
• Your potential contribution
• When the works are expected to take place
• The deadline for making observations
• Who you should contact with questions
You may have the opportunity to raise questions or make observations about the proposed works.
What if you are buying a leasehold property?
During the conveyancing process, it is
important to investigate whether there are:
• Current Section 20 consultations
• Proposed major works
• Recent major works
• Outstanding contributions
• Arrears or service-charge issues
• Reserve or sinking funds
• Other planned expenditure affecting the building
If major works have already been identified, it is important to establish as far as possible what the works are and who will be responsible for the cost.
The timing of the works and the terms of the lease can be particularly important.
Could a Section 20 notice delay your purchase?
Potentially.
Leasehold transactions can involve additional enquiries and documentation, particularly where major works are proposed.
Your conveyancer may need to obtain further information from the seller, freeholder or managing agent before you can make an informed decision about proceeding.
This can take time, so it is important to raise leasehold issues as early as possible.
What about Section 20B notices?
You may also come across the term Section 20B notice.
This is different from the usual Section 20 consultation process.
A Section 20B notice can be used where costs have been incurred but the landlord is unable to demand the relevant amount from the leaseholder within 18 months of the cost being incurred. The notice informs the leaseholder that costs have been incurred which may be recoverable through the service charge.
If you receive a Section 20B notice, it is sensible to obtain advice about what it means for your particular circumstances.
Section 20 and the future of leasehold
Leasehold law is currently undergoing reform. The government has been consulting on changes to leasehold protections and the Section 20 major works regime, including proposals intended to improve forward planning, transparency and the consultation process.
These changes form part of wider leasehold reform, so the rules can change over time.
If you are buying or selling a leasehold property, it is important to obtain advice based on the law and regulations applying at the time of your transaction.
Buying a leasehold property? Ask the right questions.
A Section 20 notice doesn't necessarily mean you should not buy a property.
What matters is understanding what work is proposed, how much it may cost, when it is likely to happen and how the cost may affect you.
At Trusted Conveyancing, we can investigate leasehold matters as part of your conveyancing transaction and raise appropriate enquiries where major works or Section 20 notices are identified.
If you are buying or selling a leasehold property in Diss, Norfolk or the surrounding area, contact us to discuss your conveyancing requirements.
Trusted Conveyancing Limited
16c Market Place, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4AB
01379 454343
office@trustedconveyancing.com
www.trustedconveyancing.com
Local Knowledge, Trusted Advice
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The Section 20 process can vary depending on the circumstances and the terms of the lease.
Planning Permission and Property: What Do
Homeowners Need to Know?
What is planning permission?
Planning permission is approval from the relevant local planning authority for certain types of development. Development can include building works, structural alterations, construction, rebuilding and certain changes of use. However, not every project requires a planning application. Some works may benefit from permitted development rights.
The important point is that you should establish the planning position before starting work, rather than assuming permission isn't required.
What types of work might require planning permission?
Depending on the property and proposed
work, planning permission may be required for things such as:
• Extensions
• Loft conversions
• Dormer windows
• Garages and outbuildings
• Changes to the property
• New homes
• Changes of use
• Certain alterations to flats
• Some new driveways or access arrangements
The rules depend on the particular circumstances and the location of the property.
What is permitted development?
Some homeowners can carry out certain extensions and alterations without making a full planning application because of permitted development rights.
These rights are subject to specific limitations and conditions, including rules concerning the size, height and position of certain extensions and outbuildings.
It is therefore not simply a case of saying: “It's an extension, so it doesn't need planning permission.” The proposed work needs to be checked against the applicable permitted development rules.
What about a Lawful Development Certificate?
If you believe work is permitted development, you can apply to the local planning authority for a Lawful Development Certificate.
This can provide formal confirmation that a proposed development is lawful, or that existing development is lawful, depending on the type of application.
This can be particularly useful when you are planning to sell the property in the future.
Planning permission isn't the only consideration
Even where planning permission is not
required, other consents may still apply. These can include:
• Building Regulations approval
• Listed Building Consent
• Conservation area restrictions
• Tree-related restrictions
• Party Wall requirements
• Other licences or consents
Permitted development rights do not remove the need to comply with other relevant permission or consent regimes.
What about listed buildings and conservation areas?
Extra restrictions can apply to properties in protected areas. Permitted development rights can be restricted or removed in certain circumstances, including through an Article 4 Direction.
Additional rules can also apply to properties in conservation areas, National Parks, the Broads and other protected locations.
If you own an older or particularly distinctive property, it is worth checking the position before carrying out alterations.
What happens when you sell a property?
Planning history can become particularly important when you come to sell.
A buyer's conveyancer may ask questions about alterations and extensions that have been carried out to the property. You may be asked to provide evidence of relevant planning permission or confirmation that work was permitted development.
The conveyancing process also considers planning restrictions affecting the property.
What if planning permission was never obtained?
This is something you should tell your conveyancer about as early as possible.
If alterations have been carried out without the necessary permission, the situation may need further investigation. Depending on the circumstances, possible options can include establishing whether the work was actually permitted development, obtaining a lawful development certificate where appropriate, or discussing the position with the local planning authority.
Do not assume that because work has been there for many years, everything is automatically fine. The correct approach depends on the particular circumstances and planning history.
Buying a property with an extension?
If you are buying a property that has been extended or altered, ask questions about the work before you exchange contracts.
Your conveyancer may need to establish:
• What work was carried out?
• When was it carried out?
• Was planning permission required?
• If permission was required, was it obtained?
• If it was permitted development, is there appropriate evidence?
• Was Building Regulations approval obtained where necessary?
• Are there any other restrictions or consents affecting the property?
Getting answers early can help avoid unexpected issues later.
Planning permission and conveyancing
At Trusted Conveyancing, we can raise appropriate enquiries as part of the conveyancing process and help identify issues that may need further investigation.
If you are buying or selling a property in Diss, Norfolk or the surrounding area, speak to us about your conveyancing requirements.
Trusted Conveyancing Limited
16c Market Place, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4AB
01379 454343
office@trustedconveyancing.com
www.trustedconveyancing.com
Local Knowledge, Trusted Advice
A Blog by Anna Jones - 5th January 2026
A New Conveyancing Firm for Diss
We’re proud to introduce Trusted Conveyancing, the newest conveyancing firm serving Diss and the surrounding areas.
Built on the principles of transparency, efficiency and client-focused service, Trusted Conveyancing is here to make buying or selling property a smoother, less stressful experience. Buying or selling a home is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make. At Trusted Conveyancing, we understand how overwhelming the legal process can feel, which is why our focus is on clear communication, practical advice, and guiding you confidently through every stage of your property transaction.
Expert Conveyancing Support You Can Rely On
Trusted Conveyancing operates as consultants for Taylor Rose Limited, a well-established solicitors’ firm that is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA No. 623604). This means that all legal work is carried out under the regulation and professional standards set by the SRA, giving our clients peace of mind that their transaction is handled with the highest level of care and compliance. By working as consultants for Taylor Rose Limited, we combine the reassurance of a nationally recognised, regulated solicitors’ firm with the personal, approachable service of a local conveyancing consultant in Diss.
A Local Presence with a Personal Touch
As a new firm rooted in the Diss community, Trusted Conveyancing is committed to offering a more personal approach than many large, remote conveyancing providers. We believe that clients should feel informed, supported and confident at every step — not left chasing updates or struggling with legal jargon.Whether you are:Buying your first homeSelling a propertyRemortgagingTransferring equityPurchasing a property to rentwe aim to provide clear explanations, realistic timescales, and regular updates, so you always know exactly where you stand.
Why Choose Trusted Conveyancing?
Local knowledge of Diss and surrounding areas
Consultant-led service with direct points of contact
Regulated legal work through Taylor Rose Limited
Clear communication and a client-first approach
Professional, reliable, and transparent conveyancing
As the newest conveyancing firm in Diss, Trusted Conveyancing is excited to build long-lasting relationships with clients, estate agents, and the wider community. Our goal is simple: to become a trusted name in conveyancing by delivering a service that puts people first. If you’re planning a property move in Diss, Norfolk, Suffolk or anywhere in the UK and want experienced, regulated conveyancing support with a local feel, Trusted Conveyancing is here to help.
Trusted Conveyancing – guiding you home, with confidence.
A blog by Anna Jones - 12th January 2026
Conveyancing in Diss
As a new conveyancing company based in Diss we will be using these blogs to offer help and advice regarding various topics around buying and selling properties throughout Norfolk, Suffolk and the rest of the UK.
Freehold or Leasehold: Which Is Better?
Freehold properties are usually the preferred option for houses due to simplicity, control, and long-term security.
Leasehold properties can still be a good investment if:
The lease is long
Ground rent is reasonable
Service charges are transparent
Before buying a leasehold property in the UK, always check:
Remaining lease length
Ground rent review clauses
Service charge history
Your right to extend the lease or buy the freehold
UK Leasehold Law and Reforms
Recent UK government reforms aim to:
Ban ground rent on most new leases
Make lease extensions cheaper and fairer
Improve transparency for leaseholders
While reforms are ongoing, leasehold remains a complex area, so professional conveyancing advice is essential.
Conclusion: Understanding Freehold vs Leasehold in the UK
Choosing between freehold and leasehold property in the UK can significantly impact your finances and future flexibility. Freehold offers long-term certainty, while leasehold can be perfectly suitable if the terms are right.
Understanding the differences before you buy can save you thousands of pounds and prevent future complications.
If you’re looking for conveyancing in Diss, Norfolk, Suffolk or anywhere in the UK please view the rest of this site for details of our services.
Source of Funds and Source of Wealth Checks: What Solicitors Really Look For.
If you’re asked by a solicitor to provide Source of Funds or Source of Wealth information, it can feel intrusive or confusing—especially if you’ve never encountered these checks before. However, they are a routine and legally required part of many legal transactions.
Understanding the difference between the two, and what solicitors are actually trying to establish, can make the process far smoother and less stressful.
Why Do Solicitors Carry Out These Checks?
Solicitors are subject to strict anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist financing (CTF) regulations. These laws require them to verify:
That money involved in a transaction is legitimate
That it has not been derived from criminal activity
That the client’s overall financial position makes sense in context
Failure to carry out proper checks can result in serious criminal and regulatory penalties for the solicitor, including fines, loss of practising rights, or imprisonment.
What Is “Source of Funds”?
Source of Funds (SoF) refers to where the specific money being used for a transaction comes from.
In simple terms, the solicitor is asking:
“Where did this money come from immediately before it was paid to us?”
Common examples include:
Savings from employment income
Proceeds of sale from a property
An inheritance
A financial gift from a family member
A bank loan
Typical documents requested:
Recent bank statements (usually 3–6 months)
Completion statements from property sales
Gift letters and the donor’s bank statements
Probate or estate documents
Loan agreements
Solicitors must be able to trace the money clearly, step by step, from its origin to their client account.
What Is “Source of Wealth”?
Source of Wealth (SoW) is broader and looks at how you built up your wealth over time, rather than focusing on a single transaction.
The key question here is:
“How did you become financially able to afford this transaction?”
Examples of Source of Wealth:
Long-term employment or professional income
Business ownership or entrepreneurship
Investments (property, shares, cryptoassets)
Inheritance or family wealth
Sale of a company or valuable assets
Typical documents requested:
Payslips or tax returns
Company accounts or dividend statements
Investment portfolios
Sale agreements for businesses or assets
Source of Wealth checks help solicitors assess whether the transaction is consistent with the client’s financial profile.
Source of Funds vs Source of Wealth: The Key Difference.
Both are important, but Source of Funds is always checked, while Source of Wealth is applied more rigorously in higher-risk cases.
When Are Enhanced Checks Required?
Solicitors will apply enhanced due diligence where there is increased risk, such as:
Large or unusual transactions
Funds coming from overseas
Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs)
Complex corporate or trust structures
High-risk jurisdictions
Cash-heavy businesses or crypto-related wealth
In these cases, additional documentation and more detailed explanations are entirely normal.
What Clients Should Keep in Mind
These checks are not personal and do not imply wrongdoing
Solicitors cannot “skip” AML requirements, even for long-standing clients
Providing clear documentation early can prevent delays
Solicitors are legally prohibited from explaining if a report has been made to authorities
Being prepared and transparent helps the transaction proceed smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Source of Funds and Source of Wealth checks are a cornerstone of modern legal practice. While they may seem burdensome, they exist to protect both clients and professionals from financial crime and regulatory risk.
If you understand what’s being asked—and why—you’ll be in a much stronger position to navigate the process confidently and efficiently.