Member Benefits

Why Legal Cost Insurance Might Be Right for You

Tribunal disputes can cost thousands in solicitor and expert fees. For a small annual premium, legal cost insurance can give you peace of mind and level the playing field.

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Why It Matters

Challenging a service charge, or defending a landlord claim, can quickly rack up legal bills. Tribunal cases often run into the £5,000–£20,000 range for solicitors and experts. Insurance costs a fraction of that.

  • Legal cover from £30–£200/year
  • Protects against unexpected costs
  • Helps balance power between leaseholder and freeholder
How It Works

Legal Expenses Insurance (LEI) covers the cost of legal advice, solicitors, and tribunal representation. It can be:

  • BTE (Before-the-Event): bought in advance, often with home insurance
  • ATE (After-the-Event): purchased once a dispute has already begun
  • Typically covers up to £100,000 of legal costs

Infographic: With vs Without Insurance

A simple comparison of potential out-of-pocket exposure in a typical leasehold dispute.

Cost Comparison: Without insurance vs With insurance Two panels comparing potential legal costs: without insurance, total exposure up to £15k; with insurance, annual premium £120 and excess, with insurer covering most costs up to £100k. Without Insurance You pay solicitor + expert + hearing prep Solicitor Expert Hearing & Prep Total exposure: ~£12k–£20k With Insurance Insurer covers most legal costs (limits apply) Your annual premium (~£120) Excess (if any) Insurer pays up to £100k Your exposure: small premium + any excess

Illustrative only — actual premiums, excesses and limits depend on the provider and policy wording.

Compare Providers (Coming Soon)

We’re speaking with insurers to create tailored cover for ServiceCharges.ai members. In future this section will allow you to compare trusted providers directly here.

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