How to Change Management Company
Published by Leaseholder Led · Independent guide — 6 May 2026
The short answer
When leaseholders say they want to change the management company, they often mean one of three different things: changing the managing agent, replacing the directors who control a residents' management company, or taking management control away from a freeholder. The route depends on which of those problems you actually have.
First, identify what you are trying to change
A managing agent and a management company are not the same thing. The agent is the professional firm doing the day-to-day work. The company or freeholder is usually the body that appoints the agent. Changing the wrong one can waste months.
| If you mean... | The likely route | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Change the managing agent | Terminate and replace the agent under the management contract. | Find who has authority to appoint the agent. |
| Replace RMC / ManCo directors | Use company rules to appoint resident directors or remove ineffective directors. | Read the company articles and member rights. |
| Take control from the freeholder | Use Right to Manage if the building qualifies. | Check RTM eligibility and leaseholder support. |
| Deal with poor management only | Complain, build evidence, then decide whether replacement is needed. | Use a written complaints process. |
Route 1: change the managing agent
If the problem is poor service, high fees or slow repairs, you probably want to change the managing agent, not the company itself. If leaseholders already control the RMC, ManCo or RTM company, the board may be able to tender for a new agent and give notice under the current management agreement.
This is usually faster than creating a new legal structure. See when leaseholders can change agent without RTM.
Not sure whether your building can act? You do not need to have your neighbours organised yet. We'll tell you whether there is a practical route before you start.
Start with a free checkRoute 2: change who controls the company
If a residents' management company exists but residents do not control it, the issue may be director control. The company's articles of association explain how members appoint directors, whether the developer kept special rights, and what voting thresholds apply.
Once residents control the board, they may be able to change the managing agent directly. For the company basics, read what a residents' management company is.
Route 3: use Right to Manage
If the freeholder controls management and leaseholders have no direct route through an existing company, Right to Manage may be the way to create a leaseholder-controlled company that can appoint a new agent.
Related guides
- What Is a Residents' Management Company?
- Self-Managed Company Leasehold: What It Means
- Managing Agent Complaints: What To Do When Nothing Changes
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your lease and building, consult a solicitor specialising in leasehold property.