Can lessee sub-let? Freeholder is absent so no consent

[dsf]

I am the leaseholder on the ground floor of a maisonette. The freeholder for the property is absent or missing and has not been contactable.

Can I still rent out the property? Usually I would need the freeholder's permission but as they cannot be reached what is my position?

[red40]

In a situation like this you really need to make all reasonable steps to locate the freeholder. Who collects the service charge, ground rent, etc.

In a nutshell you really need to take legal advice on this one!

[Paul_f]

The solicitor who acted for you when you purchased will have details of the freeholder and headlease terms which is what you essentially need.
A search on the www.landregistry.gov.uk site for a fee of £2.00 should give you the freeholders details.