Understanding the Responsibilities That Come with Right to Manage
For many leaseholders, the idea of taking control of their building through Right to Manage (RTM) feels empowering, and it is.
After all, who better to make decisions about your building than the people who actually live in it?
But while the benefits of RTM are often discussed – greater control, transparency, and potential cost savings, the responsibilities that come with it are sometimes underestimated.
Right to Manage is not just a legal right. It’s an ongoing commitment to managing a property properly, fairly, and in line with regulations.
So, what does that really involve?
What Is Right to Manage and Why Do Leaseholders Choose It?
Right to Manage allows leaseholders in a building to take over the management of their property, without needing to prove fault with the current landlord or managing agent.
It gives residents control over:
- Maintenance and repairs
- Service charges
- Building management decisions
For many, it’s about having a say in how their building is run.
But with that control comes responsibility and that’s where the reality of RTM begins.
What Changes Once You Take Over Management?
Once RTM is in place, the responsibility shifts from the landlord or managing agent to the RTM company (typically made up of leaseholders).
This means you are now responsible for:
- Day-to-day management
- Financial oversight
- Legal compliance
- Communication with residents
A simple way to think about it
You’re not just a resident anymore, you’re part of the team responsible for running the building.
Who Handles the Legal and Compliance Responsibilities?
This is one of the most important and often most complex areas. Buildings must comply with a range of legal requirements, including:
- Health and safety regulations
- Fire safety compliance
- Insurance obligations
- Maintenance standards
Key responsibilities include
- Ensuring regular safety checks are carried out
- Keeping up-to-date records
- Meeting statutory requirements
Why it matters
Failure to meet these obligations can lead to serious consequences—not just financially, but in terms of safety.
How Are Finances Managed Under RTM?
Managing finances is a central part of RTM. This includes:
- Setting and collecting service charges
- Budgeting for maintenance and repairs
- Managing reserve or sinking funds
What makes this challenging
- Balancing cost with quality
- Dealing with unexpected expenses
- Ensuring fairness among leaseholders
Transparency is key
Clear communication around costs helps avoid disputes and builds trust within the building.
What Does Day-to-Day Management Involve?
Beyond the legal and financial side, there’s the practical reality of running a building.
This includes
- Organising repairs and maintenance
- Managing contractors
- Handling resident queries
- Overseeing communal areas
The reality
Even small issues, like a leaking pipe or broken lighting require prompt attention and coordination.
It’s a role that requires time, organisation, and consistency.
Do You Need Professional Support with RTM?
While RTM gives leaseholders control, it doesn’t mean everything has to be managed alone. Many RTM companies choose to work with professional managing agents to handle:
- Administrative tasks
- Compliance requirements
- Contractor coordination
A balanced approach
You keep control of decisions, while professionals handle the day-to-day complexities.
Working with experienced providers like Plymouth Block Management can help ensure that responsibilities are managed effectively without becoming overwhelming.
How Do You Manage Relationships Between Residents?
This is one of the less discussed, but very real challenges. When residents are also decision-makers, differences in opinion can arise.
Common areas of tension
- Service charge levels
- Maintenance priorities
- Contractor choices
Why communication matters
Clear, respectful communication helps:
- Reduce misunderstandings
- Build consensus
- Keep the building running smoothly
RTM works best when there’s a shared understanding of goals and responsibilities.
What Are the Most Common Challenges with RTM?
While RTM offers many benefits, it’s not without its challenges.
Common issues include
- Underestimating the workload
- Lack of experience in property management
- Difficulty managing finances
- Keeping up with legal requirements
The key takeaway
RTM is not just about gaining control but about managing that control effectively over time.
How Can You Make RTM Work Successfully?
Practical steps include
- Clearly defining roles within the RTM company
- Keeping accurate records
- Planning budgets carefully
- Seeking professional advice when needed
Think long-term
RTM is not a one-time change—it’s an ongoing responsibility that requires consistency.
Why Understanding Responsibilities Matters Before You Start
Many leaseholders focus on the benefits of RTM—but understanding the responsibilities beforehand helps set realistic expectations.
It ensures that:
- You’re prepared for the workload
- You understand the risks
- You can plan effectively
A better outcome
When responsibilities are understood from the start, RTM becomes far more manageable—and far more successful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Right to Manage in the UK?
It allows leaseholders to take over the management of their building without needing the landlord’s consent.
Do leaseholders manage everything themselves?
They can, but many choose to work with professional managing agents for support.
Is Right to Manage difficult to run?
It can be challenging without preparation, but with structure and support, it can be managed effectively.
Final Thoughts
Right to Manage offers something valuable: control, transparency, and the ability to shape how your building is run.
But it also requires ongoing commitment, organization, and the responsibility.
It’s not just about taking over management but about managing well, consistently, and in the best interests of everyone involved.
With the right approach and the right support, RTM can transform not just how a building is managed, but how it feels to live there.
