Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook told the House of Commons that leasehold and commonhold reform remains a key priority, with a draft Bill expected to be published in the coming weeks. He said the Government is determined to scrap what he described as a “feudal” system that has left millions of homeowners feeling trapped and exploited.

MPs from all parties raised concerns about excessive and opaque service charges, particularly on new-build estates and retirement developments. Labour MPs highlighted cases where residents are paying tens of thousands of pounds each year to private management companies, often with little transparency or accountability.

Leaseholders with fewer than 80 years left on their leases also voiced uncertainty about whether to extend now or wait for reforms that could reduce costs. The Minister acknowledged these concerns, explaining that changes have been delayed while the Government works to fix serious flaws in existing legislation.

Opposition MPs criticised the pace of progress, warning that homeowners are losing patience as bills continue to rise. Liberal Democrat MPs also raised fears for older residents in retirement communities, many of whom are on fixed incomes and anxious about further delays.

Pennycook said new legislation would strengthen leaseholders’ rights, improve transparency around service charges and reduce reliance on private estate management companies. While admitting the reforms are complex, he insisted the Government remains on track to end the leasehold system and urged patience to ensure the changes are done properly.