The Right to Manage process follows a fixed legal sequence with specific notices and timeframes.
This page provides a high-level RTM timeline and checklist, designed to help leaseholders and RTM directors understand:
- The order in which steps occur
- What must be in place at each stage
- Where delays and errors commonly arise
It is intended as a practical reference, not a substitute for professional advice.
☐ Confirm the building qualifies
Before starting, confirm that the building meets the legal criteria for RTM, including:
- Building structure and use
- Number of flats
- Participation thresholds
Most small residential blocks qualify, but this should be checked early.
☐ Identify qualifying leaseholders
Establish which leaseholders qualify to participate and confirm contact details.
This avoids errors later when invitations and notices are served.
☐ Incorporate an RTM company
The RTM company must:
- Be limited by guarantee
- Use compliant articles of association
- Be set up before any formal notices are served
The RTM process is driven by the company, not individuals.
☐ Appoint initial directors
Directors are responsible for running the RTM company once RTM is acquired.
Agree roles early to avoid uncertainty later.
☐ Serve Notice Inviting Participation
All qualifying leaseholders must be formally invited to join the RTM company.
This step:
- Is legally required
- Must follow prescribed wording
- Is a common source of procedural errors
Do not skip or rush this stage.
☐ Allow the statutory response period
Leaseholders must be given time to respond and join the RTM company if they wish.
Membership can change during this stage.
☐ Prepare the RTM Claim Notice
The Claim Notice must include:
- Correct property details
- Correct parties
- Required statements and dates
Errors at this stage often cause disputes or delays.
☐ Serve the Claim Notice on all required parties
This typically includes:
- The freeholder
- Any intermediate landlords
- Relevant third parties
Service must follow statutory rules.
☐ Await the Counter-Notice
The landlord has a fixed period to respond.
They may:
- Accept the claim
- Dispute eligibility
- Challenge procedural compliance
No response does not automatically invalidate the claim.
☐ Respond to any dispute (if applicable)
If the claim is disputed, the matter may proceed to tribunal.
Professional advice is often sought at this stage.
☐ Confirm the handover date
If the claim succeeds, management transfers on the specified date.
This is when responsibilities formally move to the RTM company.
☐ Obtain records and information
The RTM company should receive:
- Contracts
- Safety documentation
- Financial records
- Insurance details
This step is often underestimated but critical.
☐ Put management arrangements in place
Decide whether to:
- Appoint a managing agent
- Self-manage
- Use a hybrid approach
Control rests with the RTM company.
☐ Ensure compliance obligations are met
This commonly includes:
- Fire safety
- Health and safety
- Ongoing inspections
- Record-keeping
RTM responsibilities are ongoing, not one-off.
☐ Maintain records and communication
Keep:
- Clear documentation
- Financial transparency
- Regular communication with leaseholders
Good structure early prevents disputes later.
How to use this checklist
This checklist is designed to:
- Be read alongside more detailed RTM guidance
- Help track progress through the RTM process
- Act as a reference for RTM directors
Each RTM claim is different, and professional advice may be appropriate at key stages.
This checklist is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Professional advice should be obtained where appropriate.