The government’s explanation of leasehold reform on 29 April 2026 emphasised a staged process. Housing minister Matthew Pennycook said the objective was not to abolish millions of existing leases immediately.
Two different parts of reform
The published speech described plans to make commonhold the default for new flats, while making it easier for existing leaseholders to gain control of their buildings and convert when appropriate.
It referred to the draft legislation published in January, together with further work needed on existing reform provisions. Those statements were a description of the government’s programme, not proof that every proposed right had commenced.
What was said about timing
A subsequent parliamentary committee report recorded the minister’s indication that the restriction on new leasehold flats was highly unlikely to operate before the next general election. That timing point concerned the proposed ban on new leasehold flats; it should not be expanded into a claim that every reform was postponed or that existing leases would disappear at that election.
Readers should check the particular measure relevant to their transaction. Proposed commonhold conversion, ground-rent reform and existing service-charge rights have distinct legal requirements. This historical account does not advise a leaseholder to stop meeting current obligations while awaiting legislation.