UK property management sector set to approach £38bn as demand for professional management grows
The latest analysis by property management specialist, Rushbrook & Rathbone, shows that the UK’s property management services sector is continuing to expand in scale, with total market revenue expected to approach £38bn in 2026, as landlords increasingly rely on professional support to navigate a more complex and compliance-heavy rental landscape. Rushbrook & Rathbone analysed the current market size of the UK property management sector based on total industry revenue, assessing how the market has performed over the past year and what level of growth is forecast in 2026. After experiencing a slight contraction in 2024, when the estimated market size fell by 1.7% to £36.25bn, the sector has since rebounded strongly. Market size based on revenue increased by 4.1% in 2025, pushing the market size to £37.7bn, with this figure having increased by 26% over the last decade. Further growth is also forecast in 2026, with this figure set to climb by a further 0.7% to just shy of £38bn. The growth of the sector reflects the increasingly operational nature of managing rental property within the UK. Compliance obligations, maintenance coordination, tenant management and financial oversight have all become more demanding, placing greater pressure on landlords to ensure their properties are managed professionally and in line with regulatory requirements. With almost four decades of experience within the sector Rushbrook & Rathbone’s highlights three key pressures that are driving greater reliance on professional management services: resourcing constraints, regulatory complexity and the operational demands of managing larger property portfolios. Many landlords manage rental property alongside full-time careers or other business commitments, leaving limited time to oversee tenant relationships, maintenance works and financial administration. Professional management companies provide dedicated teams responsible for managing these day-to-day operational demands. At the same time, the regulatory framework surrounding the private rented sector has expanded significantly in recent years. From safety certification and deposit compliance to licensing requirements and evolving tenant rights legislation, the risk of costly mistakes for self-managing landlords has increased considerably. Operational scale is also becoming an important factor. As portfolios grow, so too do the demands of coordinating contractors, monitoring compliance deadlines, managing tenant communication and maintaining accurate financial reporting. Professional management services allow these processes to operate in a structured and scalable way. Roma Sharma, Managing Director of Rushbrook & Rathbone, commented: “Managing rental property today involves far more than collecting rent and arranging the occasional repair. The sector has become increasingly operational and compliance driven, with landlords needing to navigate complex legislation, coordinate maintenance and contractors, maintain accurate records, and respond to tenant needs often around the clock. As a result, professional management is increasingly being viewed not as an optional layer, but as an important part of protecting both the asset itself and the landlord’s time. What we are seeing is a gradual shift in how property management is perceived, particularly among portfolio landlords and investors who recognise the value of having structured systems, specialist expertise and reliable contractor networks in place to support the long-term performance of their assets.” Data Tables and Sources View full data tables and sources online here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Industrial leaders ready to invest in flexible, electrified operations, Siemens study finds
Almost two-thirds of industrial sector leaders see electrification as the most effective lever to achieve net zero targets (65 percent) Most plan to use demand-side flexibility mechanisms to optimize energy use (59 percent) 63 percent view digitalization as a critical enabler of the energy transition However, nearly two-thirds (63 percent) say policy uncertainty is a growing threat to the success of the energy transition According to new research, industrial organizations are showing renewed momentum in decarbonizing their operations, with power grid investment, demand-side mechanisms, and digitalization emerging as the strongest levers for progress. The Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor, which surveyed 1,400 senior executives, finds that almost two-thirds of industrial leaders (65 percent) see electrification as the most effective lever to achieve net zero targets, with additional progress already accelerating onsite renewable usage, and decarbonizing core operations. The proportion of organizations that are mature or advanced in onsite renewable energy production has risen to 42 percent, and in decarbonization of core operations to 38 percent – both up from 27 percent in 2023. At the same time, demand-side flexibility is gaining traction as a practical way to cut emissions and energy costs by shifting consumption according to market conditions. Nearly six in ten (59 percent) industrial organizations plan to use their energy assets to benefit from flexibility mechanisms, and 45 percent say their efforts are already mature or advanced. Digitalization is underpinning these advances, with 63 percent of industrial leaders viewing it as a critical enabler of decarbonization, particularly through smarter energy management and AI-driven optimization. More than half believe better data sharing between energy producers and consumers would improve both efficiency (56 percent) and resilience (58 percent) of the overall system. Yet to maintain this momentum, companies need a clearer policy environment. Almost two thirds (63 percent) say policy uncertainty is now a growing threat to the energy transition, 60 percent report that regulatory uncertainty discourages private sector investment in renewables, and 57 percent say uncertainty about the future energy system is delaying clean energy investment. Matthias Rebellius, Managing Board Member of Siemens AG and CEO of Smart Infrastructure, said: “Industrial companies are proving that sustainability and competitiveness can advance together. They are investing in electrification, flexibility and digital technologies that deliver results today. What they need now is long-term policy clarity and supportive regulations to plan ahead with confidence and accelerate the transition to cleaner, more efficient operations.” About the Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor:The Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor is a biennial study commissioned by Siemens, surveying 1,400 senior executives and government representatives in 19 countries across energy, buildings and industries. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
It’s almost time to unveil the 2026 PIA Winners!
The Finalists for 2026 Pump Industry Awards the have been shortlisted across the nine award categories, collectively highlighting the very best in innovation, performance, technical ability, and overall contribution to the pump sector. The annual awards presentation dinner is a celebration of the industry’s best and brightest. Alongside well-deserved reward and recognition, the evening offers outstanding networking opportunities, and the perfect chance to celebrate with colleagues from across the sector. This highly anticipated industry gathering takes place on Thursday 19th March at the famous Hilton St Georges Park, in Burton on Trent, and promises to be another sell out event. Our 2026 Finalists by award category PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by DFA Media Group PROJECT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by World Pumps ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRIBUTION OF THE YEAR Sponsored by SPP Pumps MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by WEG UK DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Caprari / Calpeda SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Wilo CONTRIBUTION TO SKILLS & TRAINING AWARD Sponsored by ABB RISING STAR AWARD Sponsored by Innomotics SUSTAINABLE CONTRIBUTION FOR A BETTER WORLD Sponsored by AESSEAL The nine winners will be announced during the glittering gala dinner, which will bring together a broad cross-section of industry personnel, and end-user customers, to honour outstanding achievements from right across in the international pump sector. Join us for the celebration A few places are still available, so whether it’s taking a table to host customers or booking a few seats for you, your team and partners, don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a wonderful evening of great food, fine wine, fantastic entertainment and that all-important networking until the early hours, when our now infamous ‘survivors’ breakfast’ will be served. To help deliver this key industry awards ceremony, we will be joined by ex-professional snooker champion and popular TV pundit, Steve Davis. Best known for dominating professional snooker during the 1980s, he reached eight World Snooker Championship finals in nine years, won six world titles, and held the world number one ranking for seven consecutive seasons. He was also the first snooker player to make a televised 147 break. Since then, his TV punditry has become legendary, and he can also add DJ, electronic musician, and author to his long list of credits. To book your place please visit www.pumpindustryawards.com/book-tickets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
STARK Group Awarded EcoVadis Platinum for Fifth Consecutive Year
STARK Group has been awarded EcoVadis Platinum for the fifth year in a row, the highest distinction in one of the world’s leading sustainability rating systems. With a score of 94/100, the Group ranks in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies assessed globally. The rating confirms STARK Group’s strong performance across environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement, underlining the Group’s ambition to make sustainability an integrated and commercial driver of its business. For customers, the rating provides independent recognition of STARK Group’s work with responsibility and documentation. The Group now provides CO₂ data for 78% of all LCA-relevant product sales in the Nordics and Germany. In the Nordic markets, product-level climate data is available through digital tools that enable customers to select lower-carbon alternatives, comply with emerging building regulations, and document the overall climate footprint of their projects. At the same time, the Group has invested significantly in capabilities and advisory services. More than 700 sustainability ambassadors have been trained, and nearly half of STARK Group’s 18,500 employees have completed basic sustainability training. STARK Group’s CEO, Søren P. Olesen, says: “Receiving Platinum for the fifth consecutive year demonstrates that sustainability is not a side project, but an integrated part of our business foundation and our collaboration across the value chain. Our ambition is to raise both our own performance and that of the wider industry. By combining strong supplier partnerships, relevant customer tools and ambitious reporting, we make sustainability practical, transparent and a genuine competitive advantage.” STARK UK’s Head of Sustainability, Sabrina Passley, says: “At STARK UK, sustainability is fundamental to how we operate. Being part of a Group that consistently achieves Platinum recognition demonstrates the strength of our governance, transparency and responsible supply chain practices. For our customers, this means practical support, credible product solutions and trusted data to help them build more sustainably. It underlines that sustainability at STARK UK is embedded, measurable and central to our long-term success.” With approximately 15,000 suppliers, STARK Group works systematically to strengthen responsible processes and drive joint development across markets. The focus is on close collaboration between the group’s business units and direct dialogue with suppliers to identify opportunities for partnerships and continuous improvements. STARK Group is also ahead of upcoming regulatory requirements. The Group already reports in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and has published its first integrated financial and sustainability report several years before the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is expected to apply in full to the company. EcoVadis assesses companies against 21 sustainability criteria across four core areas: environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. The assessment process is designed to enhance transparency and promote continuous improvement across global value chains, enabling customers to monitor performance and identify high-performing partners. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Water Quality Challenges in Industrial Construction Projects
Industrial construction projects today are more complex than ever, integrating advanced mechanical systems, automation, and sustainability standards into large-scale facilities. While design teams often focus on structural integrity and energy efficiency, water quality is increasingly becoming a critical factor in project success. From manufacturing plants to distribution centers and processing facilities, industrial buildings rely heavily on water for cooling, cleaning, production, and safety systems. When water quality issues are overlooked during planning and construction, the consequences can affect both short-term project performance and long-term facility reliability. Poor water conditions can damage infrastructure, disrupt operations, and drive up long-term maintenance costs. As facilities grow in scale and technological sophistication, builders and engineers are paying closer attention to water quality during the earliest stages of design. Why Water Quality Matters in Industrial Construction Effects on Building Systems and Infrastructure Water moves through nearly every major mechanical system in industrial buildings. HVAC systems, boilers, cooling towers, and process equipment all depend on consistent water flow to function properly. When water contains excessive minerals, sediment, or contaminants, it can accelerate corrosion and wear throughout these systems. Over time, scale buildup narrows pipes and reduces heat transfer efficiency, forcing equipment to work harder to maintain performance. Corrosion weakens metal components, leading to leaks, failures, and costly repairs. These issues often emerge soon after a facility becomes operational if water quality was not addressed during construction planning. Operational and Financial Risks Poor water quality does more than damage infrastructure. It creates operational risks that can disrupt production schedules and increase downtime. Equipment failures caused by scaling or contamination may halt operations entirely while repairs are made. Financially, the impact can be significant. Higher energy consumption, frequent maintenance, premature equipment replacement, and regulatory compliance costs all add up. For industrial facilities designed to operate continuously, even small inefficiencies linked to water quality can result in substantial losses over time. Common Water Quality Issues on Large Construction Projects High Mineral Content and Hard Water Hard water is one of the most widespread challenges in industrial construction. It contains high levels of calcium and magnesium that easily form scale when heated or circulated through mechanical systems. In boilers and heat exchangers, scale acts as an insulating layer that reduces heat transfer efficiency and increases energy consumption. Mineral deposits can also restrict water flow inside pipes and valves, raising the risk of leaks or mechanical failure. Facilities located in regions with naturally hard water often require specialized treatment systems to remove minerals before water enters critical equipment. Without treatment, these deposits gradually reduce system performance and shorten equipment lifespan. Contaminants and Sediment Water sourced from municipal supplies, wells, or surface systems often carries sediment, rust particles, and organic material. These contaminants can clog filters, damage pumps, and wear down internal components of mechanical systems. In construction environments, debris from pipes, welding residue, and dust can further degrade water quality during system installation and startup. If not properly flushed and treated, these materials remain in circulation and continue causing problems after the facility opens. Inconsistent Water Supply Quality Water quality can vary by region, season, and supply source. Facilities located in different geographic areas may experience fluctuating mineral levels, changing chemical compositions, or variable contaminant concentrations throughout the year. For industrial buildings that rely on stable water conditions for production processes or cooling systems, these fluctuations create operational challenges. Designing systems that can adapt to varying water quality is increasingly important for modern construction projects. How Builders and Engineers Are Addressing These Challenges Modern industrial construction increasingly incorporates water treatment strategies directly into facility design. Instead of reacting to water problems after systems are installed, project teams are taking proactive steps to ensure consistent water quality from day one. Advanced filtration and purification technologies allow facilities to remove minerals, sediment, and contaminants before water enters critical mechanical systems. These systems help maintain reliable operating conditions while protecting infrastructure from long-term damage. Modern industrial facilities increasingly integrate advanced purification systems directly into their water infrastructure during the design phase. Reverse osmosis technology, in particular, allows engineers to control mineral content and contaminants before water reaches critical equipment. This approach supports customized solutions for many applications across manufacturing, processing, and cooling operations while maintaining stable system performance. Designing Water Infrastructure for Longevity In addition to treatment technology, infrastructure design plays a major role in managing water quality. Engineers now focus on selecting corrosion-resistant materials, optimizing pipe layouts to minimize stagnation, and allowing easy access for monitoring and maintenance. Scalable system designs also allow facilities to expand operations without compromising water performance. This forward-thinking approach ensures infrastructure remains reliable even as production demands increase over time. The Role of Water Planning in Sustainable Construction Improving Efficiency and Reducing Waste Sustainability has become a core priority in industrial construction, and water management is a major component of green building strategies. High-quality water allows systems to operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and minimizing resource waste. When scaling and corrosion are controlled, mechanical systems maintain optimal performance for longer periods. This efficiency translates into lower utility costs and reduced environmental impact across the facility. Supporting Green Building Standards Many sustainability certifications include water efficiency and management as part of their evaluation criteria. Integrating advanced treatment systems helps facilities meet these standards while improving infrastructure reliability. Improved water quality also supports reduced chemical usage, longer equipment lifespans, and more consistent system performance. These benefits align closely with the goals of environmentally responsible construction and long-term facility sustainability. Best Practices for Managing Water Quality During Construction Early Assessment and Testing Effective water management begins before construction even starts. Evaluating local water conditions allows project teams to anticipate challenges and design appropriate treatment systems. Water testing can identify mineral content, contaminants, and seasonal variations that may impact system performance. With this information, engineers can specify treatment solutions tailored to site-specific conditions rather than relying on generic approaches. Collaboration Between Contractors and Engineers Successful water quality management requires coordination across disciplines. Mechanical engineers, contractors, and facility planners must work
Topping Out of Premier Inn Jervis Street and Premier Inn O’Connell Street, Dublin
Gilbert-Ash and Whitbread celebrate a double topping out in Dublin City Centre Leading construction company Gilbert-Ash celebrated a significant milestone with the topping out of Premier Inn Jervis Street and Premier Inn O’Connell Street, in the centre of Dublin. The topping out ceremonies for both hotels were attended by Gilbert-Ash, its valued client Whitbread PLC, which owns Premier Inn, and key project stakeholders. The new hotels at Jervis Street and O’Connell Street will create 444 of Premier Inn’s latest format guest bedrooms in the heart of Dublin, where the brand is expanding rapidly. The developments also signal a major step forward in Gilbert-Ash’s growth ambitions within its home market of Ireland. Premier Inn Jervis Street is a 215-bedroom hotel reshaping a prominent corner at the intersection of Jervis Street and Abbey Street Upper. The project includes the demolition of the existing building and construction of a seven- storey building plus a basement and roof, with an onsite restaurant and bar on the ground floor overlooking Wolfe Tone Park. Premier Inn O’Connell Street is a 229-bedroom hotel located within the Clerys Quarter redevelopment. The works include construction of an eight-storey building plus a basement and roof, with restaurant and reception to ground floor. Both hotels are due for completion at the end of 2026 and are scheduled to open and welcome guests in early 2027. Gilbert-Ash Managing Director, Ray Hutchinson, said the company was proud to continue its partnership with Whitbread on two landmark hotel projects that will add significant strength to Dublin’s growing hospitality sector. He said: “Reaching the topping out stage is always a rewarding milestone. It’s the moment when we start to see the building emerge from its plans. “Both the Premier Inn Jervis Street and Premier Inn Clerys projects continue to make excellent progress, and collaborating with Whitbread and our wider project partners has been hugely satisfying. “I have no doubt that, when they open, both Premier Inn hotels will become highly sought-after destinations for visitors to Dublin.” Emma O’Shiel, Project and Programme Manager for Whitbread in Ireland, said: “Topping out two prime Dublin City Centre hotel developments on the same day demonstrates the scale of Premier Inn’s ambitions in Ireland. It shows how successful we are at bringing our affordable, consistent product to the best locations – and how fast we are working to grow a top-class network for our customers. “But we don’t work alone, and we need the support of an experienced contractor and development team to build complex hotel developments to our high standards. So, my thanks go out to Gilbert-Ash and the whole consultant team who have worked so hard to create these two-flagship new Premier Inn hotels for us.” Whitbread acquired Twilfit House on Jervis Street in January 2019, successfully securing planning approval from Dublin City Council to redevelop the former museum site into a 215-key hotel. The Clery’s Quarter development site was acquired by the business in August 2022 with planning permission already secured in June 2023. Whitbread currently offers its customers a choice of six hotels in Ireland across Dublin and Cork, offering more than 1,000 bedrooms, with an additional 1,200 rooms secured in its development pipeline. It is targeting a 5,000-bedroom network across Ireland. Gilbert-Ash has a unique approach to construction, fit-out and refurbishment based on the belief that great buildings come about through hard work, inspired innovation and genuine collaboration. Sustainability is a key focus for Gilbert-Ash with a number of initiatives underway to help the company to drive down its carbon footprint. Both the Jervis Street and O’Connell Street Premier Inn hotels have been designed to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’. To find out more about Gilbert-Ash visit www.gilbertash.com. For more on Whitbread PLC visit www.whitbread.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals