Staircasing Solicitors

Staircasing Solicitors

Staircasing allows you to purchase additional shares in your shared ownership property, increasing the portion you own and reducing the rent you pay to the housing association. Whether you’re planning a small increase or aiming for full ownership, Trethowans’ specialist staircasing conveyancers provide clear, expert guidance at every stage.

Our team helps you understand the legal process, reviews your lease terms, liaise with the housing association, and complete the transaction efficiently so you can secure more control and long term stability in your home.

What is Staircasing?

Staircasing is the process of buying further shares in your shared ownership home at its current market value, based on a RICS valuation. Most schemes allow owners to staircase in set increments—commonly 10% or 25%—or gradually work toward 100% ownership, depending on the lease conditions. Some leases may include restrictions or caps, especially in certain rural areas, so it’s essential to check the terms before proceeding.

Benefits of Staircasing

Increasing your share can offer:

• Reduced rent — every extra share purchased lowers your housing association rent.
• More equity — you benefit more from property value increases
• Mortgage flexibility — 100% ownership can allow you to switch to standard mortgage products, often at better rates
• Greater control of your home — full ownership often removes shared ownership restrictions

How Staircasing Works

The process typically includes:

1. Reviewing your lease

To understand increments, caps, or required notice

2. Notifying your Housing Association

Formal notice is usually required before beginning

3. RICS valuation

A valuation determines the price of your additional share. Reports are usually valid for three months

4. Mortgage arrangements (if needed)

Shared ownership mortgages will apply until you reach 100% ownership

5. Instructing a staircasing conveyancer

Your conveyancer handles the lease review, legal checks, Memorandum of Staircasing, and completion

Most staircasing transactions complete in 1–3 months, depending on valuation timing and any lender requirements.

Why Choose Trethowans for Your Staircasing Conveyancing?

1. Experience

Our dedicated team of conveyancers are highly experienced in staircasing and have years of experience helping clients achieve their goals. Our guidance is jargon-free, client-focussed, impartial and supportive. You will have a dedicated conveyancer throughout.

2. Free initial consultation

It is important to have a conveyancer help guide you through the staircasing process as it can be complex. We offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your situation and the options available to you.

3. Highly recommended

Trethowans has been ranked as a top-tier firm in the 2026 Legal 500 guide.

4. Transparent Pricing

We offer fixed-fee services with no hidden extras, giving you complete clarity from the outset. You’ll always know exactly what you’re paying, with no unexpected charges at any stage.

5. Relationships

We have strong relationships with local Housing Associations and other shared ownership providers, enabling your staircasing to run more smoothly.

Speak to Our Staircasing Specialists

If you’re considering staircasing or want to understand your options, our friendly, qualified conveyancers are here to help. We support clients across the UK and offer face to face appointments at our offices in Bournemouth, Poole, Salisbury, Southampton, Winchester, and London.

Get in touch today to discuss your staircasing plans — and make sure your future is protected with expert legal guidance every step of the way.