If your current managing agent is falling short — whether it’s poor communication, delayed repairs, unexplained service charges, or lack of transparency — you’re not alone. Many leaseholders and Right to Manage (RTM) company directors eventually face the challenge of needing a change.
But changing your managing agent doesn’t need to be messy, political, or divisive. With the right approach, you can transition to better management without chaos, conflict, or confusion.
Let’s walk you through it.
Why Leaseholders Decide to Change Managing Agents
Across the UK, dissatisfaction with block management is growing. In fact:
- Over 50% of leaseholders say they’re unhappy with how their building is managed (Source: LEASE 2023 survey)
- Common complaints include poor responsiveness, excessive fees, and lack of transparency
- Many don’t realise they can change their managing agent — even mid-contract under the right circumstances
Recognising that change is needed is the first step. Doing it properly is what makes the difference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Managing Agent
1. Assess the Problem and Gather Evidence
Before proposing a change, document the issues:
- Unanswered emails or calls
- Unreasonable or unexplained charges
- Delayed or substandard repairs
- Budget discrepancies or missing financial reports
- Lack of site visits or inspections
This not only helps build consensus among other leaseholders, but also strengthens your case if you need to challenge contractual obligations or justify the change to stakeholders.
2. Review Your Management Agreement
Check the terms of your current agent’s contract:
- Is there a notice period?
- Are there any exit penalties?
- Who signed the agreement (the freeholder, an RTM company, a Residents’ Management Company)?
If you’re an RTM or RMC director, your board usually has the power to appoint or remove managing agents.
3. Get Leaseholder Support
If you’re not already self-managed via an RTM company, it’s essential to consult and involve your fellow leaseholders. You don’t want to replace one unpopular agent with another without buy-in.
Tip: Start with a simple survey or WhatsApp group discussion. Transparency builds momentum.
4. Invite and Compare New Managing Agents
Once the decision is made, obtain proposals from 2–3 reputable managing agents.
Ask each one:
- What’s their approach to communication?
- Do they conduct regular site visits?
- How do they handle contractor selection and oversight?
- What software or reporting tools do they use?
- Are they ARMA or IRPM regulated?
Do not just compare on price — compare on service level, transparency, and experience with leasehold blocks.
5. Give Proper Notice and Prepare for Handover
When you’ve selected your new managing agent:
- Serve written notice to the outgoing agent as per your agreement
- Request all relevant documentation (budgets, maintenance logs, contracts, leaseholder records, etc.)
- Introduce the new agent to residents and contractors
Avoid friction by maintaining professionalism throughout — even if you’re switching due to poor service.
6. Communicate the Transition Clearly
Let leaseholders know:
- Why the change is happening
- Who the new agent is
- What improvements to expect
- When and how to contact the new agent
Provide an FAQ or welcome pack from the new agent to help build trust quickly.
Pro Tip: Appointing an RTM Company? You Can Pick the Agent.
If you’re taking over management via the Right to Manage process, the good news is: you get to choose the agent from day one.
Our service, Neon RTM Freedom Plan™, helps leaseholders gain legal control of their building and move forward with a responsive, transparent managing agent that actually delivers.
Done Right, Changing Your Agent Can Be a Game-Changer
Switching managing agents may seem like a headache — but when done properly, it can lead to:
- Better service delivery
- Happier residents
- Lower service charges
- Proactive building maintenance
- Stronger financial controls
Ready to Make the Change?
At Neon Property Services, we make agent transitions smooth, compliant, and stress-free. Whether you’re an RTM company, leaseholder group, or director of a Residents’ Management Company — we’re here to help.
