Legal
Deed of Variation
Definition
A legal document used to change the terms of an existing lease or agreement. In the leasehold context, a deed of variation might amend ground rent terms, remove restrictive clauses, or change permitted use. Both parties (leaseholder and freeholder) must agree, and the deed must be registered with the Land Registry.
Why it matters
If your lease has problematic clauses — such as an escalating ground rent, restrictions on pets, or limitations on subletting — a deed of variation may be the way to fix them. However, the freeholder has no obligation to agree, and may charge a premium for consent.
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