McHugh & Co

I’m writing this as a close friend of the buyer involved in a recent property auction handled by McHugh & Co., regarding Lot 35A – 301 Shirland Road, Maida Vale, W9. The facts are very clear — your public auction listing explicitly stated: “Leasehold. Approximately 142 years unexpired.” There was no mention that the actual lease at the time was only 52 years, and that the extension to 142 years would happen after completion, and only certain legal steps were completed. Had this crucial information been clearly and transparently disclosed in the main listing, my friend would never have bid on the property. McHugh & Co. has since responded by referring to the “special conditions” buried in the legal pack. But as an auctioneer, you must know that the headline lease term shown on your listing is the most reliedupon piece of information by buyers. Hiding contradictory lease terms in the fine print — without clear reference in the main advert — is misleading at best, and negligent at worst. Let’s be clear: The listing said: 142 years lease unexpired The actual lease at time of auction: only 52 years The lease extension: not completed, and subject to postsale legal work This is exactly why we believe this was a of material misrepresentation. We stand by the original review and this statement. It is based on facts, supported by screenshots and solicitor correspondence. ⚠️ If you are considering bidding through McHugh & Co., please do your own legal checks early. Do not assume that the listing reflects the legal condition of the property.