RTM for Blocks With Poor Managing Agents

Common Triggers for RTM

Leaseholders commonly claim Right to Manage because of dissatisfaction with the current managing agent.

Typical complaints include:

• Poor communication and unresponsive service
• Excessive management fees or hidden charges
• Weak contractor control and inflated quotes
• Insurance concerns and high premiums
• Major works mismanagement
• Lack of transparency on service charge spending

RTM Does Not Require Proving Fault

Unlike appointment of a manager under Section 24, Right to Manage does not require leaseholders to prove the managing agent is defective.

If the building qualifies and the statutory process is followed correctly, RTM succeeds regardless of current management quality.

This makes RTM an attractive route for leaseholders who want control without lengthy tribunal proceedings.

RTM Lets Leaseholders Choose the Agent

After RTM acquisition, the RTM company can:

• Appoint a new managing agent of their choice
• Self-manage the building
• Negotiate competitive fees with managing agents

This gives leaseholders direct control over who manages the building and how much they are paid.

RTM Is Not Revenge

RTM is not a punishment for poor managing agents. It is a statutory right to take control of building management.

RTM requires proper organisation, ongoing commitment and understanding of management responsibilities.

Leaseholders who claim RTM should be prepared to engage with building management actively, either directly or through an RTM-appointed managing agent.

Service Charge Disputes

If poor managing agents have also led to service charge disputes, leaseholders may wish to resolve or clarify these separately.

RTM does not automatically resolve historic service charge disputes.

See our guide: RTM and Service Charge Arrears.