A Swindon firm has joined an elite group of law firms that have been independently recognised for the high quality advice they offer to residential property leaseholders.

Thrings is one of just a handful of South West legal practices to become a member of the influential Association of Leasehold Enfranchisement Practitioners (ALEP).

Thrings advises on a range of matters affecting long leases of residential property including lease extensions, freehold acquisitions, rights of first refusal and right to manage claims.

ALEP is the professional body set up to ensure that practitioners involved in the residential leasehold sector adhere to an agreed level of conduct and service. Membership of the association acts as a badge of assurance to leaseholders and freeholders that they can be sure of a consistently high level of service, integrity and professionalism.

Thrings underwent rigorous assessment to secure association membership. This involved providing details of the number of annual instructions, examples of matters dealt with by the firm and client references.

Thrings’ London and Regions Enfranchisement team is currently advising dozens of leaseholders in an exclusive block of flats close to London's Hyde Park, who are looking to acquire the freehold of their property. Thrings also provides strategic advice to developers and investors on managing enfranchisement risk and maximising their return.

Gemma Featonby, who is a property litigation lawyer at Thrings, said: “We are proud to be one of just a few firms outside London to become a member of this prestigious association.

“Membership provides independent recognition of our expertise in this complex area of law and strengthens our position as leading enfranchisement and leasehold advisers.”