People living in leasehold flats are to have more protection from unscrupulous landlords under a new law announced by the Government.

The reform aims to give homeowners in England who own a flat on a leasehold rather than a freehold basis greater control over the management of their home.

It will also create a fairer balance between the rights of landlords and leaseholders, leading to leaseholders being consulted about issues which affect them, such as repairs, and giving them greater protection from unreasonable charges.

Groups of leaseholders will also have the right to take over the management of their building without having to prove the landlord has done anything wrong, giving them greater control over the level of service charge they pay and enabling them to appoint their own management company and insurer.

Leasehold valuation tribunals, which handle disputes between landlords and homeowners, will also have increased powers and new targets to ensure cases are heard quickly.

Housing minister Keith Hill said: "The great majority of landlords and leaseholders work constructively together in accordance with the lease.

"But the reforms will help prevent oppressive behaviour by unscrupulous landlords."

Tuesday August 12, 2003