Tower block refurbishment, flats, and understandings of ownership

Abstract

AbstractThis article uses the research findings from a study of the refurbishment of council tower blocks to reflect on what it means to be a leaseholder of a flat, and how this relates to ideas associated with property and ownership. The experiences of leaseholders (little input into decision making and the fear of crippling bills), together with the challenges for the building owner of upgrading blocks within a prevailing property narrative of exclusion, are also echoed in the unfolding building safety crisis in flats that has emerged following the Grenfell Tower fire. Both reveal the vulnerability of flat owners. Overall, it is shown that the property law regime does not currently meet the ownership expectations of those buying flats and is poorly designed to provide for the longevity of safe and well‐maintained buildings.