Pension Scheme Services

Specialist support to help you navigate pension-related property transactions

Buying, selling or leasing commercial property through a pension scheme involves a unique set of legal and compliance requirements.

At Hopkins Solicitors, we’re experienced in supporting trustees, scheme administrators and members through these technical transactions.

We act regularly for pension schemes acquiring property directly or leasing back to connected businesses, ensuring HMRC and scheme rules are properly followed.

What’s Involved

We can work with your pension provider, accountants and financial advisers. Our service typically includes:

• Full service provision – please see our general commercial property services page for all the various services that we offer, which we can offer with pension scheme involvement too.
• Reviewing scheme documents – confirming trustee powers and scheme compliance. We will ensure that any requirements of your scheme administrator are followed.
• Liaising with professional trustees – including banks, administrators and SIPP / SSAS providers.
• Ensuring arm’s length transactions – to comply with HMRC requirements, especially for connected party sales or leases.
• Coordinating leasebacks – preparing and registering leases where the pension fund lets the property to the business.
• Managing lender involvement – if any part of the purchase is financed, we deal with both pension provider and lender requirements.

We provide advice that helps you stay compliant while meeting your investment goals.

Things to Consider

It’s useful to think about:

• HMRC rules: Pension schemes are subject to strict rules on property use and valuation – we work with your advisers to ensure compliance.
• Timelines: These transactions can be slower due to additional requirements and the involvement of multiple parties – early planning and clear communication are key.
• Ongoing management: Leases and property obligations must be carefully documented and regularly reviewed for compliance.

Let’s get started

Talk to us about your scheme’s plans – we’ll help you navigate the process with confidence and clarity.