The UK property management services sector is expected to reach £38billion in 2026 as landlords turn to professional support to manage the increasing regulatory and operational pressures in the private rented sector, according to management specialist Rushbrook & Rathbone.

Analysis carried out by the firm reveals the sector has continued to expand despite some recent market fluctuations. Its data shows the sector was worth £36.25billion in 2024 after a 1.7% contraction, but then rebounded in 2025 with revenue growth of 4.1% to around £37.7billion.

Significant evolution

Further modest growth of 0.7% is forecast for this year, which would take the total market value close to £38billion, with around 26% growth over the last decade.

Rushbrook & Rathbone attributes that growth to the increasing complexity of managing rental property and the looming Renters’ Rights Act, with landlords facing an ever-widening range of compliance issues, including safety certification, tenancy deposit rules, licensing schemes and energy efficiency standards.

The group’s Managing Director, Roma Sharma (pictured), says it has meant the role of property management has evolved significantly.

Managing rental property today involves far more than collecting rent and arranging the occasional repair.”

She says: “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.”

She adds: “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.”