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Many Resident Management Companies and RTMs eventually reach a point where their current managing agent isn’t delivering the level of service they expected.

If you’re considering switching from RMG, this guide explains:

• Whether you can switch
• What’s actually involved
• How to avoid common pitfalls
• What a better-managed setup looks like

👉 Or, if you’d prefer to talk it through:

Book a quick, no-obligation call

1: Why developments start looking to leave RMG

We regularly speak to directors who feel their development isn’t getting the attention it should receive.

Common issues raised include:

• Difficulty getting timely responses
• Lack of consistent contact or ownership
• Limited visibility on service charge spending
• Reactive rather than proactive management
• Slow progress on ongoing issues

Every development is different, but if this sounds familiar, it may be time to review your options.

2: Why these issues tend to happen

Large national managing agents typically operate at scale, often with:

• Centralised teams
• High property-to-manager ratios
• Standardised processes across large portfolios

This model works for volume, but it can sometimes result in:

• Less local oversight
• Slower communication
• Reduced flexibility for individual sites

3: Can you actually switch managing agent?

In most cases, yes, but timing matters.

It depends on:

• Your management agreement terms
• Notice period (often 3–6 months)
• Whether you’re an RTM or RMC
• Board alignment

If you’re unsure, we can quickly review your position and explain your options.

4: What switching from RMG typically involves

A well-managed transition is straightforward, but it needs to be handled properly.

The key stages:

1. Review your current contract

• Notice period
• Termination clauses
• Any restrictions

2. Appoint a new managing agent

• Agree scope of service
• Confirm fees and structure
• Set a transition timeline

3. Serve notice

• Formal notice issued in line with agreement

4. Handover process

This includes:

• Financial records
• Service charge funds
• Contracts (cleaning, maintenance, etc.)
• Keys, fobs, and access systems
• Compliance documentation

5. Transition period

• Communication with residents
• Supplier continuity
• Issue tracking and early improvements

👉 Done properly, most transitions complete within 2–4 months.

5: What directors should watch out for

Switching managing agents is very achievable, but there are risks if handled poorly.

Key things to manage:

• Incomplete or delayed handover information
• Lack of clarity on finances
• Gaps in contractor arrangements
• Poor communication to residents

👉 A structured transition process removes these risks almost entirely.

6: What a better setup looks like

When developments move away from large national agents, they’re usually looking for:

• A named contact who understands the site
• Regular presence, not just remote management
• Clear, transparent financial reporting
• Faster response times
• Proactive issue resolution

At Placekeeper Management, that’s exactly how we operate.

7: How we typically take over sites

Without overcomplicating things, our approach focuses on:

• Clear transition planning from day one
• Early review of ongoing issues
• Stabilising communication with directors and residents
• Improving visibility on costs and priorities

Most importantly: we make the process feel controlled, not disruptive.

8: Free guide – Switching Managing Agents

If you’re still exploring your options, we’ve put together a practical guide for directors:

Download: “Switching Managing Agents – A Director’s Step-by-Step Guide (UK)”

Includes:

• Checklist for switching
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Questions to ask new agents
• Realistic timelines

Request the guide

Thinking about a change?

You don’t need to make a decision today, but it’s often useful to understand what your options actually look like.

We’re happy to:

• Review your current arrangement
• Talk through your situation
• Give you a clear view of next steps

👉 Book a quick call with Trevor or Molly →