Licence to Alter

Removing carpets to and installing hard surfaces like wood or stone, can significantly impact noise levels and soundproofing. Freeholders often require a Licence to Alter to assess whether the changes meet building standards and avoid disturbances to neighbouring properties. Installing suitable acoustic underlays and insulation may be necessary to gain approval.

Structural changes—such as removing load-bearing walls, altering floor plans, or creating open-plan spaces—can have a substantial impact on the overall integrity and layout of a building. Such alterations are closely monitored by freeholders to ensure they do not compromise the structure of the property or affect neighbouring residences. Securing a Licence to Alter is crucial to gaining the necessary approval for these modifications.

Comprehensive refurbishments, layout changes or interior redesigns—especially those involving custom joinery, feature lighting, or extensive reconfigurations—often require a Licence to Alter. These projects may involve multiple trades and have implications for the property’s structure, electrics, and plumbing. Securing the correct permissions ensures that your enhancements comply with lease terms while reflecting the high standard of craftsmanship you expect.

Upgrading or relocating kitchens and bathrooms involves altering plumbing, electrics, and sometimes even ventilation systems. These changes, especially in leasehold properties, may affect shared services and common areas within the building. A Licence to Alter ensures that your plans are reviewed and approved, safeguarding both the quality of your upgrades and the interests of other residents.Description goes here

Integrating smart home technology, custom lighting systems, or specialist audio-visual setups may require structural or electrical alterations that go beyond cosmetic changes. Installing bespoke lighting fixtures, running new wiring, or embedding technology within walls and ceilings could necessitate a Licence to Alter, ensuring all works are compliant with the building’s regulations and leaseholder obligations.Description goes here

Even seemingly minor changes—like removing partition walls, installing new windows, altering doorframes, or repositioning fixtures—can have a wider impact on the building’s shared infrastructure. A Licence to Alter may be required to ensure that all alterations are carried out in a way that respects the integrity of the building and complies with lease terms.

Navigating the Licence to Alter process involves engaging with various stakeholders—freeholders, managing agents, surveyors, and solicitors—each with their own considerations. At ADOVA, we take this responsibility entirely off your hands, allowing you to focus on your vision while we manage the complexities with precision and expertise.

Understanding the specific terms of your lease is crucial to avoid delays or disputes. ADOVA’s team conducts a meticulous lease review, identifying key conditions, restrictions, and obligations. This ensures that your project is fully compliant with freeholder requirements and that any potential issues are addressed early in the process.

We evaluate your proposed alterations to anticipate potential challenges and advise on the likelihood of approval, ensuring your plans align with all necessary criteria.

We prepare all required documentation, including architectural drawings, method statements, and surveyor reports, ensuring your submission is both thorough and impeccably presented.

We manage all communications with freeholders, managing agents, and surveyors, negotiating terms and addressing concerns with a refined approach that reflects your interests.

Throughout your project, we conduct inspections to ensure the work adheres to the terms of the Licence to Alter. After completion, we manage a final inspection to confirm that all works meet the agreed standards and that your property is fully compliant.