This page explains, in general terms, how Centenary Mill is managed, who is responsible for what, and how decisions affecting the building are made.
It is intended as an overview for residents, new owners, and prospective buyers.
The basic structure
Centenary Mill is a residential development comprising individually owned flats. Each flat is held on a long lease, and the building itself is owned by a freeholder.
Day-to-day development management is carried out through a Right to Manage (RTM) company, which enables leaseholders to take responsibility for the building rather than relying on the freeholder.
This arrangement is common in residential developments and is set out in legislation.
What the RTM company does
The RTM company is responsible for the management functions of the development. In practical terms, this includes:
- Arranging the maintenance and upkeep of the building
- Setting and administering service charges in accordance with the leases
- Commissioning services and works
- Keeping company records and holding meetings
- Appointing and overseeing a managing agent where one is used
The RTM company does not own the building and does not replace the lease or the freeholder. It exists to ensure that management is carried out on behalf of the leaseholders.
Who does what
Understanding the different roles helps avoid confusion.
Leaseholders (members)
Leaseholders are the members of the RTM company. Collectively, they are the ultimate authority within the company.
Members exercise their rights through meetings, voting, and engagement with the company’s processes.
Directors
Directors are leaseholders who have been appointed to help run the RTM company.
They have legal duties under company law and are responsible for ensuring that the company operates properly, transparently, and in accordance with its obligations.
Directors act on behalf of the membership as a whole.
Managing agent
The RTM company may appoint a managing agent to handle day-to-day operational tasks, such as repairs, contractor coordination, and routine administration.
The managing agent works for the RTM company under its instruction.
Freeholder
The freeholder continues to own the building and retains certain defined rights and responsibilities under the leases and the law.
The existence of an RTM company does not remove the freeholder or alter the lease terms.
How decisions are made
Some decisions are routine and handled as part of day-to-day management. Others require broader agreement.
Key decisions affecting the development are made through the RTM company’s formal processes, including:
- Annual General Meetings (AGMs)
- Extraordinary General Meetings (EGMs), where required
- Member voting and resolutions
These processes exist to ensure that decisions are taken fairly, transparently, and with appropriate member involvement.
How leaseholders stay informed and involved
Leaseholders can stay informed and involved through:
- Company meetings
- Access to financial and management information
- Participation in consultations where required
Further details on specific topics, such as service charges or meetings, are available elsewhere on the site.
Further information
For more detailed reference material, you may find the following pages helpful:
- Service Charges – Your Rights & Obligations
- Useful Links (statutory guidance and independent resources)
National policy context
Residential leasehold law is currently undergoing significant reform at the national level. Leaseholders who wish to understand the wider policy context affecting governance, transparency, and management standards may find it helpful to review the UK Government’s draft leasehold reform proposals:
→ Leasehold Reform (UK Government – Draft Bill)
This page provides a general overview only. Leaseholders should refer to their lease and obtain independent advice where appropriate.
