How do I extend the lease on my flat?

Q I own one of three flats in a converted Victorian house in London and have done for five years. All the flats are occupied by their owners. Having recently look through my documents I have noticed that the lease left on my flat is very short – only 14 years. I can't seem to find out how I go about extending this, what is involved and if there are any costs associated. The three flat owners (including myself) each own an equal share of the building freehold. I have spoken with them and they are happy for me to get my lease extended. I just can't seem to find out how to do it. AM A As you have owned your flat for more than two years, you have the right under the 1993 Leasehold Reform Act to extend your lease by 90 years. So, provided you follow the procedures laid down by the act, your lease could be increased to 104 years (that is, the current unexpired 14 years plus 90). You can get information on the procedures from the Leasehold Advisory Service ( www.lease-advice.org ). But you don't have to use the procedures laid down by the 1993 Leasehold Reform Act to extend your lease. As the other freehold sharers are happy for you to extend your lease, you could simply get a solicitor to draw up an appropriate agreement and lease extension. However, it would make sense to use a solicitor with expertise in lease extensions and you'll find a list on the Leasehold Advisory Service website. The cost will depend on what all the sharers of the freehold agree, but a specialist solicitor should be able to advise. Muddles about mortgages? Concerned about conveyancing? Put your homebuying and borrowing worries to Virginia Wallis. Email your questions to [email protected]