Guide

Freehold vs Leasehold Property

Freehold and leasehold describe different forms of property tenure. The Title Register can usually show the registered tenure for a property.

Quick answer

Freehold and leasehold describe different forms of property tenure. The Title Register can usually show the registered tenure for a property.

Short answer

Freehold generally means ownership of the property and land for an unlimited period. Leasehold generally means ownership for the length of a lease. The Title Register can usually show whether a registered property is freehold or leasehold.

Where tenure appears

For England and Wales property, the Title Register is normally the key written record for title information. It can include the registered tenure, title number, property description, proprietor details and other legal title entries.

Official source: https://www.gov.uk/get-information-about-property-and-land/search-the-register

Why tenure matters

Tenure can affect ownership, responsibilities, sale preparation, mortgage checks, ground rent, service charges, rights, restrictions and whether additional lease documents may be relevant.

Flats often have more than one title

A flat may have a leasehold title for the individual flat and a freehold title for the building or land. If both title options are shown for an address, the right choice depends on what you need to check.

What to order

If your main question is whether a property is freehold or leasehold, start with the Title Register. If you also need the general plan of the registered title, order the Title Plan as well.

Independent service note

LandRegistries.com explains document types and ordering routes. It does not provide legal, conveyancing or financial advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which document shows if a property is freehold or leasehold?

The Title Register can usually show the registered tenure for a property where that information is available.

Can a property have both freehold and leasehold titles?

Yes. Some properties, especially flats and buildings split into units, may have both freehold and leasehold title records.

Should I choose freehold or leasehold for a flat?

For an individual flat, the leasehold title is often the relevant title, but some checks may also need the freehold title for the building or land.

Related pages

Property Guides

A central guide hub for property ownership, boundaries, title documents and regional property record systems across England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Title Register

A Title Register is a Land Registry title record that can show key ownership and legal title information for a registered property.

Title Register vs Title Plan

A Title Register contains written ownership and legal title information, while a Title Plan shows the general extent of the registered property.

England and Wales Property Records

For property in England and Wales, HM Land Registry records can help identify registered ownership, tenure, title number, charges, rights and the general extent of registered land.

Sources Used