Living in a flat
Alterations: when you need consent
Walls, floors and windows are the usual sticking points.
Reviewed by Mark Cunningham AssocRICS MTPI MIFSM, Leasehold Director. Last reviewed 3 October 2026.
Most leases require consent (a licence to alter) for structural changes, and some for any alteration at all.
Commonly affected
- Removing or altering walls.
- Replacing carpet with hard flooring, which can transmit noise.
- Windows and front doors, which are often not part of your flat under the lease.
- Bathrooms and kitchens that move pipework.
Fees
Consent fees are administration charges and must be reasonable (Schedule 11, Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002).
How we can help
Full block managementSite staffWe provide block management across Southport, Churchtown and Kew, Birkdale and Ainsdale, Formby, Ormskirk and Aughton, Crosby and Maghull, Bootle and Litherland, Liverpool, Hesketh Bank and Tarleton and Preston, Penwortham and Longton. For the law in brief, see Know the law.General information about the law in England, not advice on a particular building.