News and reports

2024 was a year defined by strategic investment, enhanced member support, and strong financial performance. Despite a challenging economic landscape, we held membership fees and Client Money Protection levies at 2022 levels for a third consecutive year, while growing membership by 4.3% to 18,711.

Proposals published for consultation state that all private rented sector (PRS) homes must meet a minimum standard based on a reformed Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) by the end of 2033, with new tenancies expected to comply from 2028. Propertymark welcomes the intention to improve energy efficiency across the housing stock, but we remain concerned about the potential burden on landlords and the capacity of the sector to meet these new obligations

The Energy Security and Next Zero Committee (ESNZC) has published its first inquiry report on retrofitting homes, concluding that at the present rate of progress, the UK is far off track for meeting its legally binding commitment to reach net zero by 2050. Around 29 million homes require upgrades, but support schemes are too complicated, short-term, and are failing to engage consumers and the supply chain.

The funding, delivered through the Land Division, will support 17 projects aimed at addressing housing need and creating stronger communities. Propertymark has consistently called for greater collaboration between devolved governments and the private sector to support housing delivery. This latest announcement reflects similar calls raised in our reports on planning reform and housing supply.

A fragmented and inconsistent approach to enforcement in the private rented sector (PRS) is letting residents down and highlighting the crucial role of responsible lettings agents in providing accurate advice and ensuring properties are safe and compliant. Research commissioned by the TDS Charitable Foundation concludes poor coordination between local authorities and other bodies allows rogue operators to slip through the net, leaving tenants vulnerable.

The global venture arm of the National Association of Realtors has selected eight high-growth start-ups for its 2025 REACH UK scale-up programme. Tackling critical challenges across the property sector - from late rent and retrofit finance to water use, waste and leasing inefficiencies, the companies represent the next wave of innovation set to modernise housing, lettings, finance, and sustainability. Delivered in collaboration with Propertymark and TDS Group, the programme provides a tailored pathway to growth through industry access, investment, and targeted support.

Backed by £17 million in UK Government funding, the strategy will refurbish empty homes, expand support hubs and offer help before people are forced onto the streets. Propertymark supports a shift from crisis response to early intervention. We campaign for local authorities to prioritise a housing-led approach and increasing engagement with our members, who are well placed to help identify at-risk tenants and support local efforts to improve access to the private rented sector (PRS).

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) system will see the introduction of RdSAP 10 – an update to the methodology that underpins domestic energy assessments in existing homes. The changes are the most significant in over a decade and are expected to improve the accuracy of EPCs, better reflect how homes are used, and help inform decisions on energy efficiency. Nevertheless, some Propertymark members have already reported increased costs for the more detailed assessments.

The UK Government has unveiled a major plan to get Britain building by backing small and medium-sized housebuilders with funding, regulatory reform, and new guidance aimed at speeding up completions. Keeping pace with housing demand remains an incredibly challenging ambition to achieve, and it is vital that reforms identify areas of potential housing need and deliver a streamlined process that supports the provision of sustainable housing.