Yorkshire law firm invests in specialist property team following increase in demand

A Leeds law firm has invested in a specialist Leasehold Enfranchisement team, further expanding its property services.

Blacks Solicitors’ specialist service was previously integrated within the Residential Property team, but a growth in demand has led to the firm launching a standalone team.

The team provides services relating to statutory and negotiated lease extensions, collective enfranchisement, right to manage claims, licences for alterations, deeds of variations to leases, and ‘right of first refusal’ under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987.

Additionally, the team will work with landlords and managing agents to deliver bespoke leasehold management services, including assisting with legal requirements on the sale of leasehold properties, and advising on the interpretation and application of lease clauses.

Anushka Nicholas, solicitor partner at Blacks Solicitors and head of the team, commented: “There is a need in the region and beyond for expert advice in this specialist area of law. At Blacks we spotted this gap in the market, and were well positioned to invest in this area of expertise.

“With so many requests for Leasehold Enfranchisement services we wanted to create a bespoke team to consolidate our specialist service offering, and grow our national client base.”

According to the firm, the pandemic has seen an increase in the volume of instructions related to Leasehold Enfranchisement due to the opportunity to reflect on enhancing the value of property.

The consolidated team comprises three members, headed by solicitor partner Anushka Nicholas, and includes recent hire Shamaila Khan who has recently been promoted to senior associate licensed conveyancer.