How Prince Andrew’s ‘Cast-Iron’ Lease Keeps Him from Eviction
King Charles and his brother, Andrew, were never particularly close. Their relationship has reportedly grown more strained over the years, especially after a series of scandals that damaged Andrew’s reputation. Ever since Harry and Meghan Markle were evicted from Frogmore Cottage in 2023, British media has repeatedly claimed that the King wants to do the same with his disgraced brother at Royal Lodge.
But Andrew has shown little interest in complying. Despite losing his royal allowance and personal security funding last year, he has clung tightly to the property—protected, it seems, by a legal technicality.
Last Friday, tensions reached a new peak when the King reportedly urged Andrew, in a heated ten-minute phone call, to relinquish his remaining royal titles and honours. Prince William was said to have played a key role in pushing for the move. Charles was reportedly satisfied with the outcome, though William believes further steps are needed, even if it means going through Parliament to strip Andrew of his titles entirely.
The Lease That’s Holding Everything Up
Experts say the only thing stopping the King from evicting Andrew is the so-called “cast-iron” lease on Royal Lodge. However, legal details suggest the situation isn’t as clear-cut as it appears.
According to royal correspondent Phil Dampier, the agreement—made with the Crown Estate—allows for the lease to be terminated if rent remains unpaid for more than 21 days or if the tenant breaches any terms. This contradicts the idea that Charles has no legal power to act.
The contract also outlines that if Andrew himself chooses to end the lease, the property would revert to the Crown Estate, which could owe him compensation for refurbishment costs—up to £7 million, though the amount decreases annually and disappears entirely after 25 years.
Andrew is also required to maintain the estate’s grounds and repaint the property every five years, while the Crown Estate retains the right to inspect it with reasonable notice.
Given that Royal Lodge has reportedly fallen into disrepair, the King could once again “encourage” his brother—this time to vacate the 30-room residence for good. Whether Andrew will listen is another matter entirely.
