The UK government announced on 29 September 2026 that it plans to legislate to give the Secretary of State powers to cap fees that leaseholders and people on freehold estates are charged for their landlord's permission for simple requests, such as keeping a pet. According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the powers would also cover privately managed estates where homeowners face similar charges for minor cosmetic changes. The changes would additionally enable a clampdown on administrative fees, including charges for providing documents on request or for being notified of a change in mortgage provider. A public consultation is to be launched on what should be capped and the amount for each item.

The ministry also said it intends, for the first time, to introduce independent regulation of property agents. Under the plan, a regulator could set codes of practice on conduct and complaint handling; agents would need a licence and appropriate qualifications, and the regulator could revoke licences for falling short of standards. The government said the measures would support over 5 million existing leaseholders and future homeowners, and that it would set out more information in due course.