Freehold management: The 4‑step switch to a better agent in 2026

• Switching agents is now a straightforward administrative process, not a legal battle.

• The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 has made the process clearer and more transparent.

• A structured review highlights red flags like poor communication, weak accounting, and lack of site presence.

• Notice periods and termination clauses are simple to check and act on.

• Sebright handles the full handover, including a day‑one audit of the building’s health.

In 2026, loyalty to an underperforming managing agent is an expensive mistake. Many RMC directors and leaseholders feel stuck with unresponsive or distant agents, assuming that switching will be stressful, confrontational, or time‑consuming. In reality, the process is now clearer than ever. With the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 fully in effect, moving to better freehold management is a standard administrative transition that gives buildings immediate operational benefits.

Step 1: Review current service levels

The first step is identifying exactly where your current agent is falling short. Most buildings experience the same recurring issues: slow response times, limited site visits, opaque accounting, and a lack of proactive planning. A simple service review highlights these gaps and gives the board a clear picture of why a change is necessary for the building’s long‑term health.

Step 2: Check the contract

Every management agreement includes a notice period and termination clause. These are usually straightforward and easy to locate. The 2024 reforms have made contract transparency a priority, giving RMCs and leaseholders clearer rights and fewer barriers when moving on from underperforming agents.

Step 3: Hold a board decision

Once the review and contract check are complete, the board can hold a formal vote. This is a standard governance step that ensures the decision is properly recorded. A clear majority is usually enough to proceed. At this stage, it is professional courtesy to notify the outgoing agent, but the process remains a business decision, free from unnecessary conflict.

Step 4: Complete the handover

The handover is where many directors worry about workload, but a senior‑led managing agent takes responsibility for the entire transition. This includes requesting documents, transferring financial data, and collecting compliance records. Modern freehold management providers ensure nothing is missed and that the building continues operating smoothly throughout the change.

Sebright begins with a day‑one audit of the building’s health, giving directors immediate clarity on risks, priorities, and opportunities for improvement. Residents are also onboarded to a secure portal, giving them 24/7 visibility of their accounts from the first day of service.

Why switching agents is easier in 2026

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 has made the Right to Manage and agent switching processes more transparent. RMCs now benefit from:

• Clearer access to building information

• Stronger rights regarding the transfer of financial data

• More protection against hidden exit fees or service penalties

These changes have removed many of the barriers that previously discouraged leaseholders from making a change.

The impact of a senior‑led approach

A senior‑led management model ensures that decisions are made quickly and issues are escalated without delay. Unlike larger firms where your building is one of thousands, operational intensity means your manager is on‑site frequently enough to spot problems before they become expensive repairs.

What a better transition looks like

A smooth transition includes a clear timeline for document transfer, immediate communication with residents, and a full review of compliance, maintenance, and financial records. This structure ensures the building moves forward with confidence and avoids the disruption many directors fear.

Start your transition with confidence

If your building is ready for a more proactive, senior‑led approach, we can help. Our transition process is simple, transparent, and fully managed from start to finish.

Get in touch

FAQs

Is switching freehold management companies complicated?

No. It is a straightforward administrative process involving a notice period, a board vote, and a structured handover. Modern legislation has simplified the process for leaseholders.

What happens during the handover?

The new agent requests all documents, financial data, and compliance records from the outgoing provider. A full building audit follows to identify priorities and ensure nothing is missed.