Quick answer
Ground rent problems during a sale often arise because the buyer’s solicitor or lender wants clear evidence that rent is not in arrears or that any risk is covered.
What to do next
- Ask the freeholder or managing agent for a ground rent statement.
- Keep evidence of requests and non-response.
- Ask whether the seller can pay any confirmed arrears on completion.
- Consider whether retention or indemnity insurance is acceptable to the buyer/lender.
- Do not assume no demand means no issue; confirm the lease position.
Common mistakes
- Waiting until exchange to request evidence.
- Assuming the managing agent collects ground rent without confirmation.
- Ignoring lender requirements.
- Treating indemnity insurance as a substitute for advice in every case.
Useful related resources
- Ground rent statement request
- Freeholder non-response letter
- Retention on sale checklist
General information only: check the current official position and consider professional advice before taking formal legal action.