Council tenants have a legal right to manage their housing services through the formation of a Tenant Management Organisation (TMO). This allows residents to take control of day-to-day management tasks while the council retains ownership of the properties.
Who can set up a TMO?
- The group must represent at least 25 council homes (may vary by council).
- Tenants must go through a development stage including training and competence assessment.
- A ballot must be held, and a majority of tenants must vote in favour.
- The TMO must enter into a modular management agreement with the council.
What can a TMO Manage?
- Day-to-day repairs and maintenance.
- Cleaning and caretaking.
- Rent collection and arrears.
- Tenancy management and neighbour disputes.
- Grounds maintenance.
How to form a TMO?
- Form a tenant group and explore interest in managing services.
- Undertake training and develop a business case.
- Pass a competence assessment conducted by the council or an approved body.
- Hold a formal ballot of all affected tenants.
- Sign a management agreement with the council and begin operations.
Your rights and support
Council tenants retain all tenancy rights under a TMO. The landlord remains the council, and tenants can access support from national bodies, local housing teams, and government guidance.
Where to get more information:
- National Federation of TMOs: www.nftmo.com
- Government guidance: www.gov.uk/government/publications/right-to-manage-statutory-guidance-part-1
- Local council housing engagement teams