PM (Property Managers) Forum

Property Managers Forum Discusses Enhancing Social Value and Maximising Customer Experience in Property Management

The following notes are a summary of the discussion that took place at the Remit Consulting Property Managers’ Forum, in September 2024. This was kindly hosted by Helix Property Management and Hines Asset Management.
 
The meeting began with a discussion on electricity use in buildings featuring a presentation from Innovo Engineering, focusing on the introduction of DC systems, increased power demands from data centres, PV panels, and EV charging infrastructure. In the ensuing discussion, attendees noted rising energy prices, long lead times for increasing power capacity, and challenges around infrastructure upgrades, particularly where tenants require high energy input or fast EV chargers.

Many observed that while Europe is moving faster in adopting DC and moving away from gas, the UK faces a regulatory gap, making implementation difficult. The lack of clarity around future standards, such as EPC B by 2030, is also hindering development, with some projects unable to secure funding without power guarantees. Energy storage and battery systems were discussed, with concerns raised around cost, structural support, and lost floor space. 

EV charging is becoming more common, especially in regional business parks, though it’s typically not a significant income generator. Retrofits are more common than new installations due to planning constraints. Power constraints at remote sites remain a challenge, especially where landlords must absorb CapEx costs as part of tenant attraction. 

The second part of the forum focused on regional management challenges. Staffing shortages, particularly for surveyors and building managers, were cited, with difficulties exacerbated by the need to manage assets across wide geographies. While FM supply is less of an issue, cost pressures and the rising standards of FM regulation are narrowing the gap between FM and PM fees. There was consensus that regional tenants expect London-level service without understanding the additional cost involved. Discussions also covered challenges in fee structuring, RPI uplifts not covering inflation, and the need for better client education around what sits within service charges versus client-funded scope increases. 

There was a wider reflection on recruitment, with extremely competitive graduate markets and limited apprenticeship opportunities. It was suggested that firms and supply chains could better utilise the apprenticeship levy, with added ESG value. 

Lastly, AI was discussed, with general interest in use cases for property management and building operations. Attendees highlighted the need for structured training to ensure productivity gains from adoption