A section 40 information request under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 concerns business-tenancy information. It should be read separately from any notice seeking to end or renew the tenancy. This overview concerns England and Wales.
Read the request in full
The prescribed forms explain that the requested information can help establish occupation, subtenancies or interests in the premises. Identify who sent the notice, which interest you hold and exactly what information is requested. Ask a commercial-property adviser to check applicability and validity where necessary.
Record the response deadline
The statutory forms state that the relevant information must be provided within one month of service. Record the service details and obtain advice promptly if the date is disputed. Do not treat an informal acknowledgement as the complete response.
Check the information against records
Gather the lease, subletting documents and relevant ownership or transfer records. Distinguish confirmed facts from matters requiring enquiries. Have the response checked before sending it, and retain the final version with evidence of delivery.
Monitor later corrections
The forms describe a continuing duty to correct information that becomes incorrect, generally over six months from service, with specified exceptions following a transfer and notification. They require correction within one month of becoming aware of the error. Ask the adviser how those rules apply to your role and transaction.
A clear diary and document file help prevent a formal request being overlooked. This guide is not a substitute for checking the current prescribed notice or obtaining advice on the particular lease.
Editorial review: 15 October 2026. This original Property Perpetuity guide replaces the imported text; the original archive publication date is retained.