Recognised tenants' association: how leaseholders can form one and what it can do

England and Wales · Law checked 24 October 2026 · Not legal advice

A recognised tenants' association (RTA) lets leaseholders who pay into the same service charge act together, with some rights individuals don't have. It is recognised under section 29 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, either by the landlord giving written notice or by a certificate from the tribunal.

Who can join, and how many you need

• Qualifying tenants are leaseholders liable to pay variable service charges that contribute to the same costs (shared owners count; renters usually don't).
• England: for a tribunal certificate the association must normally represent at least 50% of qualifying tenants (2018 regulations).
• Wales: the Leasehold Valuation Tribunal will usually expect at least 60%.
• The tribunal looks for a fair, democratic constitution, officers (chair, secretary, treasurer) and independence from the landlord.
• In England, the secretary can serve a request notice asking the landlord for contact details of qualifying tenants who aren't members. The landlord must first get their consent.

What an RTA can do

• Appoint a surveyor to advise on service charges, with rights to inspect documents and common parts (s.84 and Schedule 4, Housing Act 1996). Only an RTA has this right.
• Require the landlord to consult it about the managing agent (s.30B of the 1985 Act).
• Make section 21 and section 22 requests for members, with their consent, and ask about the buildings insurance.
• Receive section 20 consultation notices and nominate contractors.

Why bother?

Tribunal fees and expert costs are easier to share, the landlord has to deal with one body, and a coordinated response to consultation carries weight. An RTA can also be a first step towards the Right to Manage.

Questions