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Major Works and Section 20 Basics
How to spot Section 20 and major works exposure in a leasehold pack before exchange.
Updated 21 May 2026 · 2 minute read
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Related topics
- Major works and building safety
Review Section 20 notices, major works timing, remediation references, and building safety signals that can create cost or delay risk.
Who this is for
Buyers, conveyancers, brokers and advisers concerned about roof, lift, facade, fire safety or other high-value works.
Why it matters
Section 20 consultation is about leaseholders' rights to be consulted on major works or long-term agreements paid through the service charge. In a purchase, the practical problem is timing and quantification: what work is planned, what stage is it at, and how much could fall to this flat?
What to check first
- Search the pack for Section 20, consultation, major works, qualifying works, QLTA, tender, specification and contractor.
- Identify the stage: intention, estimates, award, works in progress or final account.
- Check whether the expected contribution for the flat is stated.
- Compare the expected works with reserve fund balance and budget.
- Ask who pays if the demand lands before or after completion.
Red flags in the pack
- Works mentioned but no notice attached.
- Notice attached but no estimate or scope.
- High-value works with no per-flat apportionment.
- Reserve fund unlikely to cover cost.
- Seller/buyer liability for pending demands not addressed.
Evidence to gather
- Section 20 notices and consultation correspondence.
- Specifications, estimates, tender summaries and contractor appointment letters.
- Reserve fund and budget information.
- Lease apportionment clause.
- Seller/conveyancer replies on liability at completion.
Questions to send
- What is the current Section 20 stage and latest scope?
- What is the estimated contribution for this flat?
- How much will be paid from reserves and how much by additional demand?
- Who is responsible for any demand issued before or after completion?
How LeaseLens uses this
LeaseLens groups major-works references across emails, PDFs and scans, then asks for the missing cost/timing evidence instead of treating every mention as the same risk.
Official context
Caution
This is an informational screening guide only. It is not legal advice, does not interpret your lease for you, and does not replace advice from a qualified conveyancer or solicitor.
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Spot Section 20 and major-works exposure, then request the cost, timing, reserve and apportionment evidence missing from the pack.
- Leasehold Dispute and Tribunal Signal Check
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- Leasehold Pack Missing Documents Check
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