Recognised tenants’ associations
Running the tenants’ association and maintaining recognition
A recognised tenants’ association must be run properly, otherwise it may lose its recognised status.
To run the association you need to:
- keep its constitution up to date
- keep its accounts up to date
- keep an up-to-date membership list
- keep the chair, secretary and treasurer roles filled
- make decisions in line with its constitution
- keep proper records of meetings, votes and decisions
- continue to meet the qualifying criteria for recognition
Making records available for inspection
The constitution, rules, accounts and membership lists must be made available for inspection by members, qualifying tenants or their representatives.
There is no strict rule on how to do this. For example, you might publish the information on a website, make it available on request, or keep a folder or file that can be accessed when needed.
Costs of running the association
Recognised associations often charge a membership fee to help cover basic running costs, such as postage.
Any membership fee or subscription rule should apply equally to all members.
Using some recognised association rights will involve larger costs. For example, if you appoint a surveyor to advise on service charge accounts or major works they will need to be paid.
The constitution should explain how larger spending decisions are made. It should be clear:
- who can approve spending
- when members must be consulted
- whether a vote is needed
- how costs will be shared
- who is liable for paying them
Specialist insurance may also be available to help protect officers and members with concerns about liability.
When recognition can be withdrawn or cancelled
Recognition can be withdrawn or cancelled if the association stops meeting the qualifying criteria.
The best way to protect recognition is to run the association properly.
If the landlord withdraws recognition
If the landlord has recognised the association, they can withdraw recognition by giving at least 6 months’ notice. They do not have to give any reasons.
If this happens you can apply to the tribunal for a certificate of recognition.
If the landlord changes
If the landlord changes, the secretary should tell the new landlord that the association exists.
If the association has a certificate of recognition, give the new landlord a copy.
If the tribunal cancels a certificate
If recognition was granted by the tribunal, the landlord cannot simply withdraw it. The certificate can only be cancelled by the tribunal.
The tribunal may consider cancelling a certificate if:
- the certificate was obtained by deception or fraud
- the association represents fewer than 50% of qualifying tenants
- the chair, secretary or treasurer roles are vacant
- the association has breached its constitution
- there are irregularities in voting, decision-making or recording decisions
More information about running a tenants’ association
- Last updated:
- 25 June 2026
- Next review:
- 25 June 2028
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