Setting up the right to manage
Getting started with the right to manage
The right to manage is a right for owners of leasehold flats to work together to manage their building, after taking over the management from the landlord (freeholder).
This guide takes you through the process of setting up a right to manage company and taking over management.
You can find out about things to consider before you start and check that your building is eligible in our guide about the right to manage.
Your aims for taking on the right to manage
If you’re considering the right to manage, start by thinking about what the leaseholders want to achieve by taking over management of the building. Discuss it with the other leaseholders and see if there is agreement.
For example, your aims might include:
- saving money
- getting repairs done or improving standards
- taking control of the service charge budget
- removing management control from the landlord
These discussions will help you decide if it’s worthwhile and agree a plan for how to manage the building.
It’s important to understand what you’re taking on. The right to manage gives leaseholders control, but it brings responsibilities. The leaseholders become responsible for all decision-making, budgets and expenditure, standards of management, providing services, repairs and major works.
Consider whether the leaseholders have the skills and knowledge to take this on, and whether to do the day-to-day management yourselves, or use a managing agent.
Once you’ve decided on your plan for taking on the right to manage, the main steps are:
- set up the right to manage company
- invite other leaseholders to take part, through a notice inviting participation
- send a notice of claim to the landlord – they might send a counter-notice
- make arrangements to take over management
- Last updated:
- 16 December 2025
- Next review:
- 16 December 2027
Related content
About the right to manage, eligibility criteria and steps to set it up
Advice guideGuide for leaseholders taking on the director's role of a right to manage company
Advice guideYour options if you're unhappy with how your building is managed
Advice guide