Charity Land

Trustees have significant legal responsibilities when dealing with charity property.

Whether acquiring, disposing of, leasing or charging land, charities are subject to a distinct statutory framework which imposes obligations beyond those applicable to other property transactions. Failure to comply can have serious consequences for both the charity and its trustees. We provide specialist advice to ensure transactions proceed efficiently and in full compliance with the relevant legal requirements.

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How we can help with charity land.

Charity property transactions

Acquisition, disposal, leasing, refinancing and ongoing management of property held for charitable or community benefit.

Charities Act compliance

Advising trustees on the statutory requirements that apply to each transaction, from exemptions to the statements that must accompany it.

Structure & governance

Constitutional structures, governance and commercial arrangements for charities, not-for-profits and parish and town councils.

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Charity property transactions

Charity property is a recognised area of expertise within the firm, and we advise charities and not-for-profit organisations of all sizes. Our clients include organisations delivering essential community services, such as supported housing and mental health provision, together with landowning charities responsible for managing property held for charitable or community benefit. Across the sector, we advise on the acquisition, disposal, leasing, refinancing and ongoing management of charity property.

Charities Act compliance

What distinguishes these transactions is the additional regulatory framework under the Charities Act. We advise trustees on the statutory requirements applicable to each transaction, including how property is held, whether any statutory exemptions are available, and the steps necessary to ensure compliance. This includes advising on the reports and professional advice required, the documentation to be prepared and the statutory statements that must accompany the transaction. By becoming involved at an early stage, we help trustees identify potential issues before they affect the progress of a matter and ensure that legal obligations are addressed from the outset.

Structure & governance

Our advice frequently extends beyond the property transaction itself. Working closely with colleagues in our Corporate and Commercial teams, we advise charities and not-for-profit organisations on constitutional structures, governance and commercial arrangements. This includes advising on charitable incorporated organisations, community interest companies and other appropriate legal structures, together with trading activities, commercial contracts and collaborative arrangements with third parties. We also act for a number of parish and town councils on their property and governance requirements.

Whether advising on a proposed property transaction, reviewing existing landholdings or assisting trustees with their statutory obligations, we provide clear, pragmatic advice tailored to the operational and regulatory needs of the charity sector. Further information about our wider corporate and commercial services can be found on our Corporate Services and Commercial Services pages.