Leasehold reform
The new RICS management code, in plain English
What changed on 7 April 2026, and why it matters to you.
Reviewed by Mark Cunningham AssocRICS MTPI MIFSM, Leasehold Director. Last reviewed 3 October 2026.
The RICS Service Charge Residential Management Code, 4th edition, took effect on 7 April 2026, replacing the 2016 edition.
What is new
- A new section on the Building Safety Act 2022, covering higher-risk buildings and remediation.
- Stronger expectations on budgets, accounts, procurement, complaints and client money.
- Encouragement of long-term maintenance planning and reserve funds.
Why it matters
The Code is approved by the Secretary of State. Courts, tribunals and redress schemes can take it into account when judging how a building has been managed.
How we can help
Full block managementChanging your agentWe provide block management across Southport, Churchtown and Kew, Birkdale and Ainsdale, Formby, Ormskirk and Aughton, Crosby and Maghull, Bootle and Litherland, Liverpool, Hesketh Bank and Tarleton and Preston, Penwortham and Longton. For the law in brief, see Know the law.Related reading
Leasehold reform: what is in force, and what is not yetShould your managing agent be qualified?General information about the law in England, not advice on a particular building.