But those already trapped in spiralling ground rent contracts said the nightmare would continue until developers were forced to pay compensation. Campaigners say the Taylor Wimpey assistance scheme still leaves buyers in the clutches of an independent ground rent company, facing what they allege are “exorbitant charges”. Bill Gresty bought a Taylor Wimpey flat in 2007 but called the builder’s assistance deal a “publicity stunt”. His £125,000 flat in Bolton carries a £500-a-year ground rent, and was in a contract where it would double. “They also refused to put the ground rent back to £250.

Source: The Guardian November 13, 2017 18:19 UTC