Prince Andrew has been warned to act promptly or face potential health risks, as recent images of the Royal Lodge have sparked alarm.
Following reports that King Charles has cut off his brother’s £1million-a-year stipend, new photographs reveal the property’s exterior walls plagued with visible mould, inconsistent repair work and structural fissures.
The Duke of York, who secured a 75-year lease in 2003 and is reported to have already poured millions into upkeep, could now be looking at additional annual costs of £400,000, The Sun claims.
Property guru Terry Fisher, from We Buy Any Home, highlighted the urgency of addressing the building’s problems, warning: “If Andrew doesn’t tackle the visible mould and structural cracks soon, it could have far-reaching effects. For one, if left untreated, damp and mould can lead to more serious health hazards and even impact the liveability of certain areas.”
“Structural issues, if allowed to worsen, might also raise questions from the Crown Estate about his stewardship of the property.”
Gov.UK underscores that damp and mould in homes can generate allergens, irritants, and toxins that may pose health risks.
Healthline further cautions that individuals with allergies or asthma could be at increased risk, noting that contact with or inhalation of mould spores can trigger allergy-like symptoms such as a runny nose and congestion, eye irritation, sneezing, and lung irritation, reports.
Reports indicate that the upkeep of the Windsor residence is included in Prince Andrew’s Royal Lodge lease agreement. He currently resides there with his former spouse, Sarah Ferguson, and their daughters, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice.
The Duke of York reportedly intends to bequeath the property to his daughters, but this could necessitate additional consent, as noted by expert Terry.
He remarked that while Prince Andrew has significant rights of occupancy, Royal leases often come with succession restrictions, particularly for properties designated for active royals.
“Such leases aren’t always straightforward inheritance-wise; transferring the lease to non-working members of the family could likely require the Crown Estate’s approval, especially under King Charles, who might prioritise other uses for Royal properties,” Terry explained.
“In other words, while Andrew has substantial rights under the lease, he may still face limitations in passing it on to family without special permissions.”
