St George Wharf in Vauxhall, SW8, remains one of the most prestigious residential addresses on the south bank of the Thames. For prospective buyers and investors, understanding the full cost of ownership is essential for evaluating returns, affordability, and long-term asset planning.
This guide from Fraser Bond, a leading London property consultancy, outlines the key ownership costs at St George Wharf, from purchase and mortgage fees to ongoing service charges, ground rent, and compliance obligations.
While the purchase price varies based on unit type and location within the development, all buyers should budget for:
Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT):
Applies on all residential property purchases over £250,000
Higher rates apply for second homes and overseas buyers
For a £950,000 flat, SDLT can exceed £38,000
Legal Fees:
Typically £1,200 – £3,000, depending on complexity
Includes searches, title checks, and Land Registry registration
Mortgage Arrangement Fees (if applicable):
Valuation, product, and broker fees often total £1,000 – £2,500
Fraser Bond’s acquisition advisory service supports buyers by structuring purchase costs efficiently and coordinating trusted legal and mortgage experts.
St George Wharf is a high-specification development with 24-hour concierge, landscaped gardens, private access, and on-site services. As such:
Service Charges:
Range from £5.50 to £8.50 per square foot annually
One-bedroom flats: approx. £4,000 – £6,000 per year
Larger three-bedroom units or penthouses: £9,000 – £15,000 per year
Covers maintenance, security, common areas, and building insurance
Ground Rent:
Typically £300 – £700 per year
May vary by block and lease terms
Some leases are subject to periodic reviews or escalation clauses
Fraser Bond assists with service charge analysis and liaises with building management to confirm cost transparency and value alignment.
In addition to ownership levies, owners should account for:
Council Tax:
Based on property banding and location within Lambeth Borough
One-bedroom flats: approx. £1,400 – £1,700 per year
Larger units: £2,000 – £2,700 per year
Utilities:
Electricity, water, and broadband costs typically range from £1,200 – £2,500 annually
Heating is electric in most units
Maintenance & Repairs:
Planned maintenance, appliance upkeep, and internal repairs
Fraser Bond offers fully managed maintenance services to ensure compliance and protect asset value
For investors planning to let their units, additional obligations include:
Lettings Fees (if applicable):
Tenant find and tenancy management typically range from 8% to 12% (inc VAT)
Fraser Bond offers all-inclusive landlord packages
Gas Safety Certificate (CP12), EICR, and EPC:
Legally required for all rental properties
Budget approx. £250 – £500 annually for safety and compliance certifications
Inventory, Check-In/Out, and Deposit Protection:
Legal requirements for furnished units
One-off cost at the start of each tenancy
Fraser Bond ensures all landlord clients are fully compliant under the Housing Act 2004 and relevant local licensing schemes.
Whether you are purchasing for owner-occupation, long-term rental income, or asset diversification, Fraser Bond provides full ownership support:
Acquisition and cost forecasting for all unit types
Lease review and service charge advisory
Lettings and property management with guaranteed compliance
Sales and exit strategy planning for long-term owners
Our Vauxhall-focused team understands the intricacies of St George Wharf ownership, including cost structuring, tax efficiency, and regulatory requirements.
Owning property in St George Wharf offers more than premium riverside living—it represents a stable, long-term investment in a prime London location. Understanding the true cost of ownership is vital for budgeting, return on investment, and risk management.
With service charges, ground rent, and compliance obligations varying across unit types, Fraser Bond provides detailed ownership assessments tailored to your goals.
Visit FraserBond.com to schedule a consultation or request a personalised St George Wharf ownership cost report.
