An overview of the key issues which are relevant to service charges payable under leases of residential property.

This practice note focuses on the provisions of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 (LTA 1985) and the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987 (LTA 1987) which contain various statutory protections relating to the administration and recovery of residential service charges.

Note: this practice note does not include commentary on the consultation requirements under section 20 of the LTA 1985. For a full discussion of those requirements, see Practice note, Residential service charges: consultation requirements under the LTA 1985.