The freeholder cannot stop a valid RTM claim just because they dislike it. But they can object if statutory criteria are not met or notices are defective.
Check RTM EligibilityThe freeholder cannot stop a Right to Manage claim purely because they object to losing management control.
However, the freeholder can object if:
The freeholder can serve a counter-notice objecting to the RTM claim if they believe the claim is invalid.
Common valid objection grounds:
Some freeholders issue counter-notices even when they have no valid grounds. This is tactical resistance designed to delay or discourage the RTM claim.
If the freeholder objects without valid grounds, leaseholders can apply to the First-tier Tribunal and the claim will usually succeed.
Defective statutory notices are the most common freeholder objection point.
Mistakes such as wrong building descriptions, missed parties, incorrect dates or defective Section 78 service give the freeholder valid grounds to object.
Proper preparation and professional notice review reduce this risk significantly.
A properly prepared RTM claim with correct eligibility, compliant company formation and accurate statutory notices is difficult for the freeholder to stop.
DIY RTM claims with procedural errors are vulnerable to freeholder objections and tribunal costs.
Use our free RTM eligibility checker to understand whether your building qualifies and get an indicative cost estimate.
Check Eligibility Now