FAQ's

How do I know if our building qualifies for RTM?

"Generally, the building must be a self-contained block with at least two flats, and at least two-thirds of the flats must be leasehold."

What is Right to Manage?

"The Right to Manage allows leaseholders to take control of the management of their building without proving any fault with the current management company."

What should I do if I don't own my property?

"If you don't own your property, visit the downloads page and use the provided email template to contact your landlord or ask your estate agent to pass the information to your landlord."

Can a difficult freeholder complicate the process?

"While a difficult freeholder can raise challenges, these must be based on legal criteria. SMSC handles all responses to ensure a smooth process."

How long does the RTM process take?

"The process typically takes around 4-6 months from start to finish, depending on the speed of gathering necessary support and potential freeholder responses."

What happens if we don’t get 50% sign-up?

"If we don’t achieve the 50% sign-up rate within six months, the initial deposit is not refunded. However, SMSC will refund the remaining balance."

Will I get my deposit back if we don’t succeed?

"If the RTM process is not successful, SMSC retains the deposit but refunds the balance."

How is the block managed once RTM is set up?

"The managing agent runs day-to-day operations, leaseholders report any required work, and directors approve work in line with budgets."

What are the duties of RTM directors?

"Directors set budgets based on leaseholder requests at the AGM and oversee the managing agent to ensure they work in line with leaseholder requirements."

What is discussed at AGMs?

"AGMs typically include an overview of the block's status, financial information, and votes on necessary works or decisions."

How much work goes into preparing for an AGM?

"Not much; your managing agent will provide the necessary information. SMSC advises holding AGMs online to save costs and keeping them concise."

What support does SMSC offer?

"SMSC offers comprehensive support, including guidance on RTM process, management transition assistance, and ongoing advice."

How does SMSC ensure a successful RTM transition?

"With a 100% success rate, SMSC employs a selective approach, working only with blocks they are confident will achieve RTM."

How will the new management company be selected?

"Once we achieve RTM, SMSC will run a tender to select the best management company based on our specific needs and preferences."

What support does SMSC offer to gain sign-ups?

"SMSC provides extensive marketing support, including downloadable materials for residents to share with neighbours, ensuring effective community-driven sign-ups."

What is the deadline for achieving the sign-up rate?

"We have 6 months from the initiation date to achieve the 50% sign-up rate."

What happens if we don't achieve the sign-up rate?

"If the 50% sign-up rate is not achieved, the deposit is not refunded, but SMSC will refund the remaining balance."

How successful is SMSC in achieving RTM's?

"SMSC has a 100% success rate due to their selective approach."

Why is resident involvement important?

"Our involvement in promoting sign-ups is crucial. SMSC provides marketing support, but the most effective results come from our community's efforts."

What happens to the managing agent once the RTM is approved?

"Once the RTM is approved, a notice is served to the incumbent managing agent, typically requiring a three-month notice period before transitioning to new management."

Do we need a solicitor to exercise the RTM?

"No, engaging a solicitor can be very expensive. SMSC provides all the necessary guidance."

How many AGMs do we need to host?

"Typically, just one a year unless additional meetings are needed."

Will we get more of a say in how things are managed?

"Yes, all leaseholders can vote on decisions at the AGM."