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Recognised Tenants' Associations (RTA)

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Recognised Tenants' Associations (RTA)

Leaseholders can set up a Recognised Tenants’ Association (RTA) to represent their interests in their block or street. This can be formed at any time.

An RTA must represent at least 50% of properties in the block or area where variable service charges are payable. 

Each property that is represented has one vote.  

Advantages of an RTA 

The RTA secretary can act on behalf of members to:  

  • ask for a summary of our costs for which members must pay a service charge  
  • inspect the relevant accounts and receipts  
  • request copies of estimates for long-term maintenance contracts or major works  
  • nominate contractors to be invited to tender when we want to enter a long-term agreement or carry out works  
  • ask for a written summary of the insurance cover and inspect the policy  
  • appoint a surveyor to advise on any matter relating to service charges  

How to apply

To express interest in forming an RTA, contact leaseholder services by emailing [email protected].

We will send an application form and supporting information to the organising leaseholder. They will be responsible for arranging an initial meeting.   

To assist the meeting organiser we can: 

  • provide a list of all leasehold properties within the block or estate
  • send a letter on behalf of a prospective RTA to leaseholders who have provided us with alternative address details 
  • ask our officers or members of the Leaseholders Forum to witness the election of an executive committee 

Criteria for recognition of a tenants’ association 

Before we can recognise an RTA it must:  

  • represent at least 50% of properties in the block or area where variable service charges are payable.  
  • confirm that it has adopted our rules and constitution for an RTA or, provide a copy of the constitution that has been adopted for approval by us 
  • have held an initial general meeting 
  • be fair and democratic 
  • provide us with a list of all members including the names and addresses of the Chair, Secretary and Treasurer and signed and dated by the Chair 
  • put forward the views of the majority of members where we have consulted about proposed works and estimates 

Leaseholder services will issue a formal ‘notice of recognition’ for an initial 2-year period.  

The RTA must hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM) every year and re-apply for recognition every 2 years. Leaseholder services must be informed of any changes to membership or executive committee.    

We can withdraw formal recognition but must give at least 6 months' written notice. We must allow an RTA time to correct any issues affecting its’ recognised status.