RTM Formation Process

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Timeline Overview

The RTM process typically takes 4-6 months from start to finish.

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Step 1: Preparation (1-2 months)

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Check Eligibility

Use our eligibility checker or consult the eligibility requirements.

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Gather Support

Under s.79(5) of the Commonhold and Leasehold Reform Act 2002, the RTM company’s membership must include qualifying tenants for at least 50% of the total number of flats in the building (not 50% of qualifying tenants — and where there are only two qualifying tenants in the building, both must be members under s.79(4)):

• Explain the benefits of RTM
• Address concerns about costs and responsibilities
• Collect signed membership applications

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Step 2: Form the RTM Company (2 weeks)

Register a company limited by guarantee at Companies House:

1. Choose a company name (must include “RTM Company Limited”)
2. Prepare the Memorandum and Articles of Association (compliant with the statutory prescribed RTM articles)
3. Register with Companies House
4. If you already have an incorporated RTM company, you can capture your existing Companies House number and upload your Mems & Arts directly during onboarding.

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Step 3: Notice of Invitation to Participate (14 days minimum)

Before serving the claim notice, you must invite all qualifying tenants who are not yet members to join the RTM company:

• Serve on every qualifying tenant who is not already a member
• Allow at least 14 days after service before serving the Claim Notice
• Dispatch via our built-in 1st Class Royal Mail postal checkout or download for personal/recorded service

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Step 4: Serve the Claim Notice

Under s.80(6) and s.80(7) of CLRA 2002, statutory periods are counted in calendar months (plus a recommended 2-day safety margin in the calculator):

• Must be signed by or on behalf of the RTM company
• Must specify a counter-notice deadline at least 1 calendar month after the Claim Notice is served
• Must specify an acquisition date at least 3 calendar months after the counter-notice deadline
• Must be served on the landlord, any third parties to the lease, and any appointed managing agent

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Step 5: Counter-Notice Period (at least 1 calendar month)

The landlord has until the specified counter-notice date (at least one calendar month) to serve a counter-notice (including via the platform’s secure counter-notice token link):

• Accepting the claim - proceed to acquisition date
• Disputing the claim - the RTM company may apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) within 2 months

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Step 6: Acquisition Date & Platform Handover

On this date, management transfers to the RTM company. You can transition your RightTo workspace directly into a Community, Self-Managed, or Managed building on Manage.Management — and any qualifying RTM postal checkout spend is rebated as subscription credit on handover.