Leaseholders are an important part of the Holyrood community, and this page is here to support you with clear, accessible information about your rights, responsibilities, and the issues that matter most. Whether you’re dealing with service charges, repairs, communication with the council, or simply want to understand processes more clearly, HEART is here to help you feel informed and supported. We know that leasehold matters can be complex and sometimes frustrating, so this space brings together practical guidance, useful resources, and updates on the work we’re doing to raise concerns collectively. You’re not on your own — as a community, we can share knowledge, strengthen our voice, and work towards fair treatment for all leaseholders on the estate.
• The right to clear, transparent service charges You are entitled to a breakdown of what you’re being charged for, how costs were calculated, and evidence that the charges are reasonable.
• The right to challenge charges you believe are unfair If something doesn’t look right, you can question it. Leaseholders have the legal right to dispute service charges through formal processes, including the First‑tier Tribunal.
• The right to be consulted on major works For large projects or costly repairs, the council must follow a formal consultation process (Section 20). You have the right to comment, question, and request clarity.
• The right to information You can request documents, invoices, contracts, and details about how decisions were made. Transparency is not optional — it’s your right.
• The right to proper maintenance and repairs The council must keep the building and communal areas in good condition. If repairs are delayed or ignored, you have the right to raise concerns and expect action.
• The right to be treated fairly Leaseholders must be treated with respect, honesty, and consistency. You have the right to clear communication and timely responses.
• The right to collective action When leaseholders come together, your voice becomes stronger. HEART supports residents in raising shared concerns and pushing for fair treatment.
Yes, service charges are still due — but you can dispute them. Many leaseholders choose to pay “under protest” while challenging items they believe are unreasonable or not properly evidenced. Always keep written records of your concerns.
Costs can rise for many reasons, including repairs, maintenance, or contracted services. However, leaseholders have the right to question whether charges are reasonable, properly allocated, and supported by evidence. HEART helps residents understand and challenge unclear costs.
Absolutely. Leaseholders have the legal right to request:
invoices
contracts
breakdowns
explanations of how costs were calculated
If something isn’t clear, you can ask for more detail.
You can raise concerns with the council and request inspections or evidence of completed work. If repairs are poor, delayed, or not done at all, you may have grounds to challenge related charges.
For major works costing over a certain amount, the council must follow a formal consultation process. This includes notifying leaseholders, explaining the works, and giving you the chance to comment or challenge. If the process isn’t followed correctly, charges may be limited.
Yes. If informal discussions don’t resolve the issue, leaseholders can apply to the First‑tier Tribunal to decide whether charges are reasonable and payable. Many people represent themselves, and the process is designed to be accessible.
Yes — many leaseholders on the estate face similar concerns around communication, evidence, and clarity. That’s why HEART exists: to bring residents together, share knowledge, and strengthen our collective voice.
HEART can’t act as a legal representative, but we can help you understand processes, organise your documents, and connect you with others facing the same issues. We’re here to support, not replace professional advice.
We’ll post updates on this website, share meeting minutes, and keep a record of ongoing concerns. You can also get in touch if you’d like to be added to our mailing list.
Leaseholders are welcome to join HEART, attend meetings, or even put themselves forward for the committee. The more voices we have, the stronger we become.
A payment leaseholders make to cover the cost of maintaining the building and shared areas. This can include cleaning, repairs, lighting, insurance, and management fees.
A forecast of what the council expects costs to be for the year. These are not final and can be challenged if they seem unreasonable.
The real costs for the year, based on invoices and completed work. Leaseholders have the right to see evidence for these.
Large repair or improvement projects, such as roof repairs, window replacements, or structural work. These usually trigger a Section 20 consultation.
A legal process the council must follow before carrying out major works that will cost leaseholders over a certain amount. It includes notices, explanations, and an opportunity for leaseholders to comment or challenge.
Money collected in advance to pay for future major works. Not all leases include this — if Holyrood leases don’t mention it, the council cannot charge for it.
A charge for the council’s administrative work, such as organising repairs, managing contractors, and handling accounts. This must be reasonable and clearly explained.
A key legal test. Service charges must be reasonable in amount and relate to work that is necessary and properly carried out. Leaseholders can challenge charges that fail this test.
How costs are divided between flats. This should follow the method set out in your lease (e.g., equal shares or percentage splits). If the split seems wrong, you can question it.
The formal request for payment. It must include certain information to be valid, such as the landlord’s name and address.
A way of paying a disputed charge while making it clear you do not accept it. This can help avoid arrears while you challenge the amount.
An independent body that decides disputes about service charges. Leaseholders can apply if they believe charges are unreasonable or not payable.
A document sent during a Section 20 process explaining the proposed works, estimated costs, and how to respond.
Works that trigger a Section 20 consultation because they exceed the cost threshold for leaseholders.
A contract lasting more than 12 months (e.g., cleaning, grounds maintenance). These also require consultation if they affect leaseholders’ costs.
If the council spent more than estimated, that’s a deficit (you may be asked to pay the difference). If they spent less, that’s a surplus (you may receive a credit).
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