<p><span>The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee has launched an inquiry into the government’s leasehold reform programme, with a focus on how existing leaseholders in both houses and flats encountering “onerous” leasehold terms can be assisted.</span></p> <p><span>The inquiry will probe the progress made on reforming leasehold policies following the conclusion of a government consultation last year, triggered by certain industry practices being uncovered. The Committee noted that the government was currently working with the Law Commission on issues surrounding existing leaseholders and intended to bring forward legislation. </span></p> <p><span>But it said it wished to address what more could be done to help existing leaseholders affected by unfair practices, including excessive service and administrative charges, and large increases in ground rents.</span></p> <p><span>The Committee is calling for written submissions on: </span></p> <p><span>·<span> </span></span><span>How adequate the government’s programme of work on residential leasehold reform is, including for existing leaseholders in both houses and flats, and whether further reforms are needed</span></p> <p><span>·<span> </span></span><span>What support and government intervention can be provided to existing leaseholders affected by exorbitant leasehold terms </span></p> <p><span>·<span> </span></span><span>The implications of providing such support and government intervention to existing leaseholders.</span></p> <p><span>Clive Betts MP, the Committee’s chair, said: "With around four million leasehold …