A freehold property is one where the owner holds full title to both the building and the land beneath, without payment of ground rent or service charges to a superior interest. Most houses in Greater London are freehold, although freehold flats are rare and usually subject to estate management arrangements. Drainage characteristics depend on the property's era and location, ranging from Victorian combined drains to modern separate systems. Common issues include responsibility for all private drainage within the boundary, including soil stacks, lateral drains up to the property line and surface water connections. Beyond the boundary, lateral drains are maintained by Thames Water under the 2011 transfer regulations. Freehold owners should hold up-to-date CCTV survey records and consider buildings insurance with drainage cover, as repairs to private drains can be substantial.
Freehold property
Property where the owner holds full title to building and land, including private drainage.
