Leasehold

Who collects the service charge if an RTM company manages the block?

GOV.UK’s Right to Manage guide says the company becomes responsible for collecting and managing the service charge. It may do that itself or pay a managing agent. A home survey does not see the demands, does not audit the account, and does not become the agent because it rated the stairs.

Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.

What is the fuller explanation?

Buyers still need the same papers: the last accounts, the current demands, any major-works notices, and the lease. The only change is who you ask. The qualifying guide is about whether the company could take over. It is not a receipt. If the survey rates the roof, the cost of that roof can still be charged under the lease. The rating does not cap it at the £250 consultation figure. That figure is a separate GOV.UK rule about consultation.

Ask the solicitor to confirm the demands match the company you are being told about. A demand still in the old landlord’s name may mean the story is out of date. There is no RICS fee for reconciling them. Do not pay a service charge to the seller personally on the day of the survey.

What should you ask your surveyor?

Did you see who manages, or only the condition of the common parts?
Are any notices posted in the hallway, and did you read them as legal advice? You should not.
Is the service charge inside your fee? It is not.

What are the typical next steps?

Get the demands and the accounts from the solicitor’s enquiries.
Do not set up a standing order to a neighbour because the survey was fine.
If major works are mentioned, ask whether consultation has started.

Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.

Also asked about this

Can the RTM company ignore the lease?

No. GOV.UK is describing a change of management, not a deletion of the lease. The lease still says what can be charged.

Does a managing agent mean there is no RTM company?

No. The guide says the company can hire an agent. Ask which you are dealing with.