EuroCalc

What is Leasehold?

Leasehold is a form of property tenure in which the holder owns the right to occupy and use a property for a fixed term under a lease from the freeholder, but does not own the land outright.

Leasehold is widespread in the UK for flats, in Switzerland for Baurecht (building right on third-party land), and in many cities globally for ground leases. Lease terms range from 50 to 999 years; remaining term and ground rent drive value.

When a lease runs short (typically below 80 years in the UK), the property becomes harder to sell and mortgage. Lease extension is possible but increasingly expensive as the remaining term shrinks — owners should plan extension before the value cliff.

Example

A London flat held on a 95-year lease at GBP 250 annual ground rent loses noticeable value as the term drops below 80 years; an extension at year 75 may cost tens of thousands of pounds.

Related terms

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between leasehold and freehold?+

Leasehold is time-limited; freehold is permanent. Leasehold also involves ground rent and lease obligations.

Can I extend a lease?+

Usually yes after a qualifying period; the longer you wait, the more expensive it becomes.

Does leasehold exist in Switzerland?+

Yes — the Baurecht (right of superficies) is the Swiss equivalent, typically for 60–100 years.