This is Money Podcast

Is a ground rent cap a good idea for leaseholders and why is it controversial?

9 snips
Jan 30, 2026
They explain what ground rents are and how rising clauses can make them unaffordable for flat owners. The discussion covers the proposed £250 cap, its timing and why it may not solve all leasehold problems. Pension fund and corporate pushback over asset write-downs is examined. They also cover surging stamp duty investigations, precious metals rallies, cash ISA rate moves, and whether wood burners can be used responsibly.
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INSIGHT

Pension Funds Could Face Losses

  • Investors such as M&G warn a cap would force write-downs because some assets exceed the proposed £250 limit.
  • Lee Boyce notes pension funds and savers might be indirectly exposed through holdings like M&G.
INSIGHT

HMRC Uses Data And AI To Chase Stamp Duty

  • HMRC stamp-duty investigations rose 88% in 2024-25 amid tighter scrutiny of main-home claims.
  • Helen Crane highlights HMRC's use of data, professional checks and an AI system called Connect.
ADVICE

Document Your Main-Home Status Carefully

  • Be transparent with your solicitor and keep records proving which property is your main home.
  • Helen Crane warns HMRC cross-references conveyancers, Land Registry and other data when investigating.
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