Episode Details

Section 20 Consultation Explained: Protecting Leaseholders, Managing Risk and Getting the Process Right

In this episode of Beyond Four Walls, Jodie Fraser is joined by Emily Gray to demystify one of the most talked about areas of residential property management – Section 20 consultation under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.

For many leaseholders, receiving a Section 20 notice can be worrying. It often signals significant works to their building and the potential for substantial costs. For managing agents, it’s a process that demands careful planning, clear communication and strict compliance with legislation.

But what exactly is Section 20? When does it apply? Why is it so important? And what can happen if the consultation process isn’t followed correctly?

Throughout this episode, Jodie and Emily break down the legal framework in straightforward language, exploring not only the statutory requirements but also the practical realities of managing a successful consultation from start to finish.

The conversation covers:

• What Section 20 consultation is and why it exists
 • When consultation is required under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985
 • The different consultation processes for qualifying works and qualifying long-term agreements
 • The key stages of the consultation process and the importance of following them correctly
 • Why clear communication with leaseholders is just as important as legal compliance
 • How leaseholders can engage with the consultation process and make observations
 • The role of contractors, surveyors and managing agents throughout the process
 • Common mistakes that can occur during a Section 20 consultation
 • The financial and legal consequences of getting the process wrong, including restrictions on recovering service charge costs
 • Applications for dispensation and when they may be appropriate
 • The reputational impact on managing agents when consultation is not managed effectively
 • Practical tips for planning consultations, managing expectations and reducing disputes
 • Why transparency, trust and early engagement can make all the difference

Whether you’re a managing agent looking to strengthen your understanding of the consultation process, a Resident Management Company director overseeing major works or a leaseholder wanting to better understand your rights, this episode provides practical insight into one of the most important statutory processes in leasehold management.

Beyond Four Walls is proudly sponsored by Tetra Consulting.

Disclaimer: This episode is intended to educate and inform and does not constitute legal advice. The discussion is general in nature and should not be relied upon as advice relating to any specific circumstances. If you require advice on a specific legal matter, you should seek guidance from an appropriately qualified legal professional.

Thank you so much for listening to Beyond Four Walls. If you’ve been inspired by today’s conversation and you’d like to share your own story, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me directly at jodie@jodiefraser.com if you’d like to be a guest on the podcast.

I’d also like to say a special thank you to my podcast producer, Shirley Ludford, at Swindon 105.5 – Swindon’s award-winning community radio station. It’s run by an incredible team of volunteers who are passionate about giving a voice to the local community. You can find out more about the station at www.swindon1055.co.uk

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