Open petition: Require floor material restrictions in leases be based on acoustic performance

Created by Lola Carbajal Moro
Closes on 19 February 2027

Some lease clauses still force carpet-only flooring in flats, despite modern wood/laminate floors with acoustic underlays matching or exceeding noise standards. This can harm allergy sufferers and limit choice. Leases should only be able to set acoustic performance standards, not mandate carpet.

Some leases contain absolute “carpet and underfelt” covenants. Courts interpret these strictly, so even high-performance floating floors can be treated as a breach. Modern acoustic underlays and isolated systems can even exceed Building Regulations Part E impact sound targets, yet many freeholders still refuse consent on principle. Leaseholders face costly licence applications or risk formal action. A mandatory performance-based standard would give clarity and fairness while still protecting neighbours.

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