In the world of leasehold property, you’ll often hear terms like leaseholder, managing agent, and RMC. But one key player that often gets overlooked — yet holds a huge amount of responsibility — is the freeholder.
So, who are they, what do they do, and how do we at Levels Property Management work with them to deliver a better living experience for residents?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Freeholder?
The freeholder is the legal owner of the building and the land it stands on. In a leasehold setup, residents (leaseholders) buy the right to live in a flat for a fixed period (often 99 to 125 years), but they don’t own the structure itself — the freeholder does.
A Freeholder’s Responsibilities Can Include:
- Maintaining the structure and common parts of the building
- Ensuring buildings insurance is in place
- Overseeing health & safety compliance
- Collecting ground rent (if applicable)
- Appointing a managing agent to carry out day-to-day tasks
Freeholders vs Leaseholders: Who Does What?
Think of the freeholder as the landlord and the leaseholder as the long-term tenant. The lease outlines each party’s responsibilities — but when it comes to looking after the building, everyone benefits from a proactive, competent managing agent.
That’s where we come in.
How Levels Property Management Supports Freeholders
At Levels, we work closely with freeholders to uphold their legal obligations, protect their asset, and deliver high-quality service that residents can feel every day. Here’s how:
1. Protecting the Asset
We help freeholders maintain the long-term value of the building through planned maintenance, risk management, and structured reserve fund planning — avoiding costly surprises down the line.
2. Compliance and Peace of Mind
From fire safety regulations to Section 20 consultation procedures, we make sure everything is done by the book — reducing the legal and reputational risks for freeholders.
3. Transparent Financial Management
We manage service charge budgets, ensure accurate reporting, and chase arrears professionally. Every penny is accounted for — ensuring financial clarity for the freeholder and confidence for residents.
4. A Better Resident Experience
We don’t just serve the freeholder — we serve the whole building. That means prompt response times, clear communication, and a focus on creating places people are proud to live in.
5. A Collaborative Approach
Freeholders benefit from our strategic oversight, while residents benefit from our local touch. We act as the bridge — ensuring decisions are made with both the asset and the community in mind.
The End Goal? Happy Freeholders and Happy Residents
When a managing agent understands the balance between protecting the freeholder’s interests and enhancing resident experience, everyone wins.
At Levels Property Management, we take that responsibility seriously. Whether it’s a single building or a large portfolio, we bring integrity, transparency, and innovation to every property we manage.
Are you a freeholder looking for a better way to manage your buildings? Let’s talk. We’re here to take your property management to the next level — and keep your residents smiling, too.
