Royal Expert Explains Andrew’s 'Strategy' to Delay Sandringham Move — and It Makes Total Sense

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor speaks during the London Global African Investment Summit; (Inset) Royal Palace in Sandringham Estate. Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Anthony Devlin; (Inset) Indigo.

Dec. 09 2025, Published 05:23 AM. ET

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is in no rush to leave the Royal Lodge despite being ordered to vacate the property by January 31, 2026. The disgraced royal reportedly wants an extension, and given the 12-month notice protocol, he can legally remain at the Lodge until October next year. The former Duke surrendered his lease on the 30-room Windsor mansion on 30 October, earning him an extended stay, but the principal reason for his delaying his relocation is quite clever.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor addresses the audience during a Pitch@Palace event at The Sharp Project. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Peter Byrne - WPA pool) — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor addresses the audience during a Pitch@Palace event at The Sharp Project. (Image Source: Getty Images | Peter Byrne - WPA pool)

"You're not going to see the removal vans outside Royal Lodge anytime soon," a source told The Times. Mountbatten-Windsor is currently living in the estate with his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, who is searching for a new home in Windsor, wishing to stay close to her daughters. The former Duke got the better bargain as his brother, King Charles, has offered to fund his new home on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.

Talking to HELLO!, royal author Robert Jobson commented on the same and argued, "Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor seems to be kicking his heels." The author opined that the disgraced Prince is in no hurry to pack his bags and vacate the estate. The delay is somewhat justified, given the fact that he will have to pack 20 years of his life into boxes, which is no easy task. "Why the delay? Logistics. Moving two decades of accumulated life from 30 rooms into a modest cottage takes time, close sources say. It is understood Andrew's Sandringham property isn't ready. Downsizing is complex, the Palace says."

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and King Charles attend a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Max Mumby/Indigo) — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and King Charles attend a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. (Image Source: Getty Images | Max Mumby/Indigo)

However, Jobson clarified that understanding no way means sympathy for the disgraced Duke. "Sources say Andrew is 'leaning on every technical step available' to slow the process. Delay as a strategy. Why rush to your own diminishment?" he added. According to the royal insider, Mountbatten-Windsor has made it clear to the King and his courtiers that he will wind up his belongings at his own pace, and it is not going to be fast.

"Despite formal notice being served in October to surrender his Royal Lodge lease, he won't budge until February at the earliest, suggesting he will spend Christmas at Royal Lodge while the King invites the rest of his close family to Sandringham," Jobson explained. But his delayed move to Sandringham allows the royals to avoid an awkward holiday run-in. Interestingly, a penalty remuneration is also in order for Mountbatten-Windsor once he leaves Royal Lodge.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson leave after attending the Easter Matins Service at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Hollie Adams) — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson leave after attending the Easter Matins Service at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. (Image Source: Getty Images | Hollie Adams)

The former royal has lived at the Estate for over 20 years, and the property has considerably worn off under his watch: Damp spots, peeling paint, and crumbling brickwork. The authorities conducted an end-of-tenancy inspection on 12 November and found wear and tear, which is a financial setback for Mountbatten Windsor. If not for the damages, he would receive $6,51,000 for ending his tenancy, but the Crown Estate doubts this due to severe dilapidation. "A full and thorough assessment must be undertaken post-occupation by an expert in dilapidation," the Crown Estate stated.