Leasehold Reform 2024: Judicial Reviews, Human Rights, and the Future of Property Law

In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Senior Associate Charlie Davidson is joined by Mark Chick, Senior Partner and leading leasehold law expert at Bishop & Sewell, for an in-depth discussion on one of the most significant shake-ups to property law in decades: the Leasehold Reform Act 2024. Although the Act was passed with cross-party support, many of its key provisions remain dormant, and a major judicial review could determine if and when they ever take effect. Charlie and Mark unpack the legal complexities behind this pivotal case, from human rights challenges and the right to property under Article 1, Protocol 1 of the ECHR, to the potential economic fallout for freeholders and leaseholders alike. Whether you’re a property owner, investor, or simply interested in how legal policy shapes the real estate market, this episode offers a clear, practical, and nuanced guide to the future of leasehold law. Chapter Markers: (00:00) – Episode Introduction (01:24) – What’s in the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 and why it matters (02:45) – Understanding judicial review: Challenging government decisions (06:50) – Practical advice: Should you extend your lease now or wait? (10:38) – From High Court to Strasbourg: The legal journey ahead (13:10) – Mark’s view: Why wholesale reform and phased implementation make sense (15:54) – Final thoughts: Balancing reform with market realities Useful Links: Connect with Mark Chick on LinkedIn:   / mark-chick-1131201   Reach out to Charlie Davidson on LinkedIn:   / houndofholborn   Visit the Bishop & Sewell Website: https://www.bishopandsewell.co.uk/