Financial matters regarding British royal properties

The British monarchy is facing various financial and administrative inquiries regarding royal properties. In September 2026, SNP MSP Jack Middleton requested clarification from King Charles III regarding whether the monarch would be subject to increased council tax rates on royal residences in Scotland. This follows new local council policies in Aberdeenshire and Edinburgh designed to address a “housing emergency” by applying significant premiums to second homes.

By October 2026, reports emerged regarding the King’s use of private funds to assist Prince Andrew. Following Prince Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge in Windsor, the King provided a £1.5 million loan from his private income to cover remaining repair and restoration debts owed to the Crown Estate. This amount remained after deducting compensation owed to Andrew for the early termination of his lease.

Detailed reports on the Royal Lodge transaction clarify that the total cost for remedial work and restoration was initially estimated at £1.8 million. The final settlement of £1.5 million was reached after deducting approximately £302,000, which Andrew was entitled to receive as compensation for terminating his lease agreement before its scheduled end in 2026. Rather than a direct cash payment, this compensation was applied to the repair bill. Following his departure from the 30-room mansion, Andrew has moved to a residence at the Sandringham estate, with the King reportedly covering his current living and accommodation expenses.

Recent developments indicate that the settlement follows Andrew’s loss of royal titles and his relocation to Sandringham. Additionally, a London court recently ruled that police search warrants executed at Andrew’s former residences were unlawful, a legal victory that some sources suggest the former Duke of York may use to seek the restoration of his former status.