Our Services
Right to Manage
Take control of your building. RTM gives leaseholders the statutory right to manage their own block — no fault required, no freeholder permission needed.
What Is RTM?
Your Statutory Right to Take Control
The Right to Manage (RTM) is a statutory right introduced by the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002. It allows qualifying leaseholders to take over the management of their building from the freeholder — without having to prove mismanagement and without paying compensation.
Once RTM is acquired, leaseholders — through their RTM company — appoint their own managing agent, control the service charge budget, and make decisions about maintenance and repairs.
Abbeystone has guided dozens of leaseholder groups through the RTM process. We manage the entire procedure and, once management transfers, we take over as your managing agent — ensuring continuity from day one.
Key Benefits
Choose your own managing agent
Control over service charge budgets
Direct oversight of maintenance and repairs
Transparency over all expenditure
No need to prove mismanagement
Statutory right — cannot be blocked by freeholder
No compensation payable to freeholder
Improved building standards and resident satisfaction
Do You Qualify?
Eligibility Criteria
Most purpose-built leasehold blocks qualify for RTM. The key requirements are set out below. If you're unsure whether your building qualifies, contact us for a free eligibility check.
Free Eligibility CheckThe building must be a self-contained block or part of a building
At least two-thirds of the flats must be held on long leases (over 21 years)
At least 50% of qualifying leaseholders must participate
The building must not be a converted house where the freeholder occupies part
No more than 25% of the floor area can be in non-residential use
Step by Step
How the RTM Process Works
Leaseholder Eligibility Check
We assess whether your building qualifies for RTM and confirm that sufficient leaseholders are willing to participate.
RTM Company Formation
We incorporate the Right to Manage company at Companies House on your behalf, with all required documentation.
Invitation to Participate
Formal notices are served on all qualifying leaseholders inviting them to join the RTM company.
Claim Notice to Freeholder
The statutory RTM Claim Notice is served on the freeholder and any other relevant parties, triggering the formal process.
Acquisition Date
Management transfers to the RTM company on the acquisition date — typically three months after the claim notice.
Ongoing Management
Abbeystone takes over as managing agent for the RTM company, delivering the same high standard of block management from day one.
Common Questions
RTM Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to prove the freeholder has mismanaged the building?
No. RTM is a no-fault right. You do not need to demonstrate any wrongdoing by the freeholder or current managing agent.
Can the freeholder refuse our RTM claim?
The freeholder can only oppose an RTM claim on specific legal grounds — for example, if the building does not qualify or the notices were defective. They cannot simply refuse.
What happens to existing contracts when we take over?
Existing contracts (insurance, maintenance, etc.) transfer to the RTM company on the acquisition date. We review all contracts and renegotiate where appropriate. With our specialist contractors — many of whom we have worked with for over a decade — you can expect competitive rates and a reliable, trusted service from day one.
How long does the RTM process take?
From initial instruction to acquisition date, the process typically takes four to six months, depending on the freeholder's response and any complications.
What does it cost?
Typically, leaseholders can expect to pay £200–£350 per unit to form a Right to Manage company through a solicitor. At Abbeystone, we do the heavy lifting for you — our fee is just £50 per unit. Better still, if you sign a two-year estate management contract with us, we will cover the formation costs entirely. Zero cost to you, and your building in your hands.
Take the First Step
Ready to Take Control of Your Building?
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation eligibility check. We'll confirm whether your building qualifies and explain the next steps.