Why Andrew could still live in the Royal Lodge until late next year

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor may be staying at Royal Lodge far longer than most expected, and a surprising technicality could keep him there until October 30, 2026.

The 65-year-old disgraced royal issued his required 12-month notice on October 30, giving him the legal right to stay in the sprawling 30-room Windsor residence until the same date next year.

Andrew originally signed a massive 75-year lease back in 2003, moved in the following year, and was later joined by his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson in 2008.

While Buckingham Palace insiders expect him to relocate to a private property on the King’s Sandringham Estate early next year, the lease terms mean he could legally remain far longer, and that appears to be creating new tension behind palace walls.

Earlier this year, it was reported Andrew might receive compensation for surrendering the lease early. But in a fresh revelation, the Crown Estate has now clarified that this is highly unlikely.

If no repairs were needed, Andrew would have been owed £488,342.21 for ending his tenancy next October. However, after a full inspection on November 12, the Crown Estate determined that is not going to happen.

In their official statement, they said: "Our initial assessment is that while the extent of end of tenancy dilapidations and repairs required are not out of keeping with a tenancy of this duration, they will mean in all likelihood that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will not be owed any compensation for early surrender of the lease… once dilapidations are taken into account."

As pressure builds for Andrew to vacate, sources say the former Duke is pushing back with his own demands.

According to Express, insiders claim he “just wants to be treated fairly,” but others reveal he has presented a list of expectations for his next home.

According to reports, Andrew is now requesting a “substantial six or seven bedroom house on the Sandringham Estate, complete with staff including a cook, gardener, housekeeper, driver and police security.”

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