Education
What is the Right to Manage?
The Right to Manage (RTM) is a statutory right in England and Wales that allows qualifying leaseholders to take over the management of their building from the landlord or managing agent — without buying the freehold.
What it means in practice
If you exercise RTM, responsibility for services such as maintenance, insurance and day-to-day running of the building can transfer to an RTM company formed by leaseholders. Ownership of the freehold does not change; this is about who runs the building, not who owns the land beneath it.
Legal basis
RTM was introduced under the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002. The rules set out who can qualify, how notices are served, and what happens if the statutory conditions are met. This site summarises those rules in plain English; it does not replace the legislation or professional advice.
What RTM is not
- It is not the same as collective enfranchisement (buying the freehold).
- It does not guarantee a particular managing agent or outcome — it is a structured process with fixed steps.
- It is not a substitute for legal, surveying or financial advice where you need it.
Educational use only. RightToManage.com provides general information to help leaseholders understand RTM. It is not legal advice. For your specific situation, speak to a qualified professional. Read our disclaimer.
See if your answers suggest your building might qualify — our quiz takes a few minutes.
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