The Right to Manage (RTM) was introduced in 2002 giving flat owners the ability collectively TO take over the management functions in respect of their building without having to prove fault on the part of those responsible for management under their lease (usually their landlord) or paying a premium.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch announced at the Conservative Party Conference 2025 yesterday that the next Tory Government to be elected will completely abolish stamp duty land tax (SDLT) paid by buyers on primary residences in England.
The Government has published an open consultation titled “Strengthening Leaseholder Protections over Charges and Services,” which runs until 26 September 2025. This consultation accompanies the implementation of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 and is part of the wider legislative programme designed to rebalance the leasehold system in favour of flat owners and occupiers.
The consultation targets the next phase of reforms: improving transparency around service charges, regulating managing agents, and reforming major works and reserve funds.
While all of these reforms seem to favour leaseholders, ultimately life may become more expensive, and some flats may be more difficult to sell as a result.
