However, industry experts predict that these stringent measures may soon extend beyond the social housing sector, potentially impacting private landlords and Build to Rent (BTR) operators.
This means that private residential property managers must take proactive steps now to avoid being caught off guard should the law expand to cover the entire rental sector. Spike Living can help property operators implement robust systems for maintenance tracking, compliance, and resident communication – critical elements for staying ahead of these upcoming regulatory changes.
What Is Awaab’s Law?
Awaab’s Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who suffered prolonged exposure to mould in his family’s flat. The law, forming part of the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, will enforce strict timelines for landlords to respond to damp and mould complaints:
Emergency repairs must be completed within 24 hours.
Non-urgent damp and mould issues must be resolved within set deadlines to prevent health risks.
Failure to comply could lead to serious legal and financial consequences.
Housing Ombudsman: Robust Records Are Essential
The Housing Ombudsman has warned that landlords must maintain robust records to triage and manage damp and mould cases effectively. Recent casework highlights that damp and mould remain among the top issues reported by tenants, with many complaints resulting from inadequate record-keeping and delayed responses.
Landlords are encouraged to improve their inspection processes now, rather than waiting until the law is enacted. Implementing a structured approach to reporting and responding to maintenance issues will not only ensure compliance but also improve tenant satisfaction and retention.
Labour Pledges to Extend Awaab’s Law to Private Landlords
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has put private landlords on notice, stating: “There is no justification whatsoever for letting private landlords off the hook for resolving mould and damp issues in their properties.” Labour has pledged to extend Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector if they come into power, meaning the private residential sector should start preparing now.
This potential legislative shift further underscores the importance of implementing robust maintenance and compliance measures before they become legally mandated.
How Spike Living Can Help Property Operators Prepare
Our advanced maintenance reporting module enables property managers to meet compliance standards efficiently. The platform simplifies maintenance request management, ensuring issues are logged, tracked, and resolved promptly.
Residents can easily submit maintenance requests via the app, triggering real-time notifications for property management staff. This ensures immediate action and enhances resident satisfaction by minimising delays.
Additionally, residents can attach photos to their maintenance requests, allowing maintenance teams to diagnose issues ahead of time. This means staff arrive prepared with the right tools and parts, increasing the likelihood of resolving issues on the first visit and reducing response times by up to 30%.
2.) Increased Transparency
Two-way communication is facilitated through the platform, allowing tenants to receive updates on their requests and maintenance staff to communicate directly with them. For instance requesting additional information or clarification on an issue, as well as arranging a suitable time for an inspection.
3.) Efficient Tracking and Prioritisation
Property managers can oversee all maintenance requests from a centralised dashboard, categorising issues based on urgency and severity. This ensures that high-risk problems are prioritised and resolved first, helping operators stay compliant with Awaab’s Law.
4.) Enhanced Response Times
By streamlining the maintenance process, Spike Living helps speed up response times, ensures that complaints are investigated within the mandated 14-day period, repairs are initiated within the 7-day window, and facilitates the swift management of emergency repairs within the 24-hour timeframe.
This also leads to higher tenant satisfaction, as timely repairs are a key factor in positive reviews.
5.) Detailed Documentation
The platform maintains a clear audit trail of all correspondence, with all activities logged against a property and resident, helping property managers comply with the record-keeping requirements of Awaab’s Law. This ensures that every step, from complaint to resolution, is documented, in case of future disputes.
6.) Automated Task Scheduling
Spike Living’s automated task scheduling feature ensures that routine maintenance, inspections, and compliance checks are never overlooked. Property managers can set up recurring tasks for damp and mould inspections, ventilation assessments, and follow-ups on reported issues.
By automating these processes, operators can maintain consistent property upkeep, meet regulatory deadlines, and proactively address potential hazards before they become serious issues. This reduces manual oversight, enhances operational efficiency, and helps ensure long-term compliance with Awaab’s Law and future regulatory changes.
Future-Proof Your Compliance with Spike Living
With increasing regulatory pressures, property operators must act now to implement the right technology solutions to meet compliance standards efficiently. Spike Living provides a powerful digital platform to help you stay ahead of Awaab’s Law and any future legislative changes.
Book a demo today to see how Spike Living can help you streamline maintenance processes, maintain robust compliance records, and enhance resident communication.
In an era where digitalisation is reshaping industries, property management is no exception. The UK government’s push towards digitalising key data and documents highlights the growing need for secure, efficient, and easily accessible documentation systems. This is something we at Spike have long advocated for – and already offer – through Spike Living’s document management feature.
Access to Key Documentation
Gone are the days of rifling through stacks of paper or chasing down misplaced documents. With Spike Living, all essential documentation is stored in one secure digital location, allowing residents and property managers to access them instantly.
Residents can view crucial documents such as rental agreements, move-in checklists, and, most importantly, fire and safety information, including the Resident Engagement Strategy (RES). This ensures that key compliance-related documents are always available when needed, enhancing transparency and accountability within property management practices.
Beyond just storage, Spike Living enables property managers to automate document distribution. If there’s an update to fire safety procedures or changes to the RES, notifications can be sent instantly via push notifications and emails, ensuring residents receive the latest information promptly. This proactive approach not only keeps everyone informed but also helps property managers maintain compliance without manual follow-ups.
Centralised Management for Residents and Property Managers
For residents, having a centralised platform like Spike Living means they can self-serve and access important information without having to contact their property manager. Frequently asked questions, fire safety procedures, and community updates are all available at their fingertips. Moreover, residents can gain transparency into their financial transactions, accessing detailed service charge statements, transaction histories, and even making payments electronically – enhancing both clarity and convenience.
Property managers also benefit significantly from digital documentation. Rather than sifting through physical files or searching email archives, they can instantly retrieve any necessary document from Spike Living’s platform, no matter where they are. This ease of access saves time, reduces administrative burden, and ensures that compliance requirements are met efficiently.
The Benefits of Digital Documentation
Adopting a digital approach to document management offers a multitude of advantages:
Future-Proof Your Property Management with Spike Living
The shift to digital documentation is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. With ever-changing regulations and increasing expectations from residents, property managers need a solution that simplifies operations, enhances transparency, and ensures compliance.
Spike Living empowers property managers with a streamlined, secure, and highly efficient document management system, saving time and eliminating unnecessary stress.
Ollo, by social impact developers Capital&Centric, are working with Spike to streamline resident onboarding and enhance the living experience across its rapidly growing rental portfolio.
Eyewitness Works in Sheffield which featured in Channel 4’s The Big Interiors Battle, and Farnworth Green in Bolton have become the first of its communities to benefit from Spike’s end-to-end tenancy management solution, Spike Lettings and tenant engagement portal, Spike Living.
Spike Lettings enables prospective residents to easily browse and find available properties online, go through the reservation stage, make initial payments, as well as automate the sending and signing of contracts. This not only simplifies the reservation process for residents but also for property managers.
Once moved in, Spike Living enables residents to view their tenancy details, easily report maintenance issues, as well as book onsite amenities such as the residents’ lounge, host a movie marathon in the cinema room, cook up a storm in the private dining room, or reserve a space in the co-working area.
Tenants are also able to access the calendar of social events, benefit from exclusive discounts and offers from local independent retailers, as well as get to know their neighbours through online social clubs and forums.
Jeremy Heath-Smith, CEO of Spike comments:“We’re delighted to be working with such a forward-thinking partneras Ollo. By utilising Spike’s solutions, Ollo can reduce the amount of time staff need to spend on performing administrative tasks and allow them to focus on creating the thriving communitiesOllo and Capital&Centric are renowned for.”
Tom Wilmot, joint Managing Director at Capital&Centric comments: We want to make life easy for people living in our rental communities and using the Spike platform, means we can provide a stress-free experience from the moment people sign up.
“We bring people together to create proper communities. Spike Living also means we can promote local independents, from exhibitions and gigs to foodie pop-ups and fundraisers, encouraging residents to support the local area.”
The loneliness epidemic in the UK continues to persist, with recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Loneliness Awareness UK revealing that 45% of adults feel lonely all or most of the time. This equates to over 25 million people.This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for initiatives that foster stronger, more connected communities.
In response to this growing challenge, we are proud to introduce the 2025 Community Engagement Guide, designed to empower residential developments with actionable strategies to promote resident well-being and create thriving, connected neighbourhoods.
Why Loneliness Matters in Residential Communities
For many residents, their home environment is their primary space for social interactions. This is particularly true for individuals who work from home, retirees, or those living alone. However, when community engagement is overlooked, even the most luxurious developments can feel isolating.
The impact of combating loneliness is measurable. Last year across our client developments, we saw outstanding results that showcase the transformative power of Spike Living:
3,000+ new clubs and forums were created, fostering stronger social connections.
Residents actively participated in their communities with 280,000+ comments, and social engagements.
7,500+ events were held, attracting 45,500+ attendees.
Additionally, many of our clients such as Moda, Greystar, VervLife and more who embraced the platform, emerged as top performers on HomeViews’ 2024 rankings of leading developments for resident satisfaction. This recognition underscores the success of Spike’s tools and strategies in enhancing resident experiences, strengthening community ties, and boosting property reputation.
By prioritising initiatives that foster social connections, residential developments can become more than just a place to live – they can become vibrant, inclusive communities that enhance the lives of their residents.
Practical Solutions for Building Connections
Creating a sense of belonging doesn’t happen by chance – it requires thoughtful planning and consistent effort. The 2025 Community Engagement Guide provides practical, innovative ideas to help property managers and operators tackle loneliness head-on.
Here are just a few strategies highlighted in the guide:
Hosting regular community events: From coffee mornings to fitness classes, creating opportunities for residents to interact is key to building connections.
Leveraging shared spaces: How to utilise communal areas such as lounges, gardens, and co-working spaces to encourage organic social interactions.
Using digital platforms to foster engagement: Resident engagement portals, like Spike Living, make it easy to share event information and announcements, start interest groups, and communicate with neighbours – all from one convenient platform.
The Role of Technology in Combating Loneliness
While technology can sometimes be seen as isolating, when used effectively, it can be a powerful tool for connection. Platforms like Spike Living provide residents with a central hub to stay informed, get involved, and feel part of their community. By enabling features such as group messaging, event sign-ups, and feedback forms, Spike Living helps bridge the gap between residents and their communities.
But technology alone isn’t the solution. It works best as part of a broader strategy that includes in-person initiatives and the creation of welcoming physical spaces.
That’s why the 2025 Community Engagement Guide is packed with tips to integrate digital solutions with on-the-ground efforts, ensuring your residents benefit from a holistic approach to community building
Get Your Free Copy of the Guide!
The 2025 Community Engagement Guide is your roadmap to tackling loneliness and building stronger, more connected residential communities. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas for events, advice on optimising communal spaces, or insights into the role of technology, this guide has you covered.
By implementing these strategies, you can not only enhance resident satisfaction but also improve retention rates and strengthen your development’s reputation as a place where people truly feel at home.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At Spike, we believe that community engagement is at the heart of creating places where people love to live. By prioritising connection, we can collectively address the loneliness pandemic and improve the quality of life for residents across the UK. Whether you’re managing a Build to Rent, Build to Sell, or CoLiving development, the strategies in this guide are tailored to meet your needs and help you foster lasting connections within your communities.
Let’s work together to turn residential spaces into vibrant, connected neighbourhoods – because no one should feel alone at home.
Download the guide today and start transforming your developments into thriving, inclusive communities.
The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced significant changes to building safety regulations, aiming to enhance safety standards in residential properties across the UK. For property managers, leaseholders, and residents, understanding the Act’s key terms is crucial for ensuring compliance and improving safety.
This glossary provides clear, accessible explanations of essential terms to help all stakeholders navigate this complex legislation effectively.
Key Terms and Definitions:
Accountable Person
The Accountable Person is the individual or organisation responsible for ensuring the safety of a high-rise residential building. This role typically falls to the building owner or landlord, who must manage fire and structural risks, maintain safety standards, and communicate effectively with residents. The Accountable Person is legally obliged to ensure that the building meets safety regulations and that necessary safety measures are in place and maintained.
Approved Document B (ADB)
Approved Document B is a part of the UK Building Regulations that provides guidelines on fire safety, including design, construction, and management practices. It outlines requirements for fire detection, fire suppression systems, and safe evacuation routes. Property managers must ensure that their buildings comply with ADB to meet legal safety standards.
Awaab’s Law
Awaab’s Law is a key provision in the Building Safety Act 2022 that mandates landlords and property managers to ensure that residential properties are free from hazards that could lead to serious harm, including risks associated with damp and mould. The law emphasises the responsibility of property managers to respond promptly to residents’ complaints about such hazards and to take appropriate action to rectify issues.
This provision aims to enhance the living conditions for tenants, particularly in the context of high-rise buildings, by ensuring that health and safety standards are upheld. Property managers are required to maintain clear communication with residents regarding the identification and resolution of any safety concerns related to damp and mould, thereby prioritising tenant well-being and safeguarding their health.
Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act 2022 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that overhauls building safety regulations across England. It establishes new safety protocols, defines the roles and responsibilities of those involved in building design, construction, and management, and aims to prevent incidents like the Grenfell Tower fire by enhancing safety measures for high-rise residential buildings.
Building Safety Fund
The Building Safety Fund is a government programme designed to help leaseholders in residential buildings with unsafe cladding. It provides financial assistance to cover the costs of removing and replacing dangerous cladding materials, thereby reducing fire risks. Property managers can guide leaseholders on accessing this fund to ensure necessary safety upgrades are made without financial burden on the residents.
Building Safety Manager
The Building Safety Manager is a qualified professional appointed to oversee and implement safety measures in high-rise buildings. This role involves working closely with the Accountable Person to manage fire and structural safety risks, conduct regular inspections, and ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022. Residential property managers may either assume this role or coordinate with the Building Safety Manager to maintain high safety standards.
Building Safety Regulator
The Building Safety Regulator is a new authority established under the Building Safety Act 2022, responsible for overseeing the safety of high-rise residential buildings. Part of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the regulator enforces building safety regulations, provides guidance to stakeholders, and ensures compliance with safety standards. Residential property managers will work with the Building Safety Regulator to ensure that their buildings meet the necessary safety requirements.
Cladding
Cladding refers to the external covering or envelope of a building, which can include panels, tiles, or layers attached to the structure. Some types of cladding, particularly those made of combustible materials, have been found to pose significant fire risks. The Building Safety Act 2022 mandates the replacement of unsafe cladding materials to prevent such hazards. Property managers should be aware of the types of cladding used in their buildings and ensure they meet current safety standards.
Competent Person
A Competent Person is someone with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to carry out specific tasks safely and effectively under the Building Safety Act 2022. This could include carrying out fire risk assessments or installing safety systems. Property managers should ensure that only competent persons are employed for tasks that impact building safety to maintain compliance and safety standards.
Dutyholder
A Dutyholder is any individual or organisation with legal responsibilities under the Building Safety Act 2022 for ensuring building safety. This includes architects, contractors, owners, and property managers who must ensure that buildings comply with safety regulations. Dutyholders are responsible for managing safety risks and maintaining building safety systems.
EWS1 Form (External Wall Fire Review)
The EWS1 Form is a document used to assess the safety of external wall systems, including cladding, on residential buildings. It is often required by mortgage lenders to ensure that a building’s exterior complies with safety standards. Property managers should facilitate EWS1 assessments and ensure that their buildings meet the necessary criteria to support leaseholders in their financial transactions.
Fire Compartmentation
Fire compartmentation refers to the design and construction features of a building that limit the spread of fire and smoke within separate areas or compartments. This includes walls, floors, and doors designed to contain a fire to a specific section of the building. Property managers should ensure that fire compartmentation measures are in place and maintained to protect residents and comply with safety regulations.
Fire Risk Assessment
A Fire Risk Assessment is a systematic evaluation of a building to identify fire hazards, assess the risk to occupants, and determine the necessary safety measures to mitigate those risks. This assessment is crucial for ensuring that buildings meet fire safety standards. Property managers should conduct regular fire risk assessments and implement any recommended measures to ensure tenant safety.
Golden Thread
The Golden Thread is a term used to describe the collection and management of accurate and up-to-date information about a building throughout its lifecycle. This information includes design, construction, and maintenance details, ensuring that dutyholders can make informed decisions about building safety. Property managers must maintain a comprehensive and accessible Golden Thread to facilitate compliance and ensure effective safety management.
Higher-Risk Building (HRB)
A Higher-Risk Building (HRB) refers to buildings that meet specific criteria set out under the Building Safety Act 2022 due to their potential for increased fire and structural risks. This typically includes residential buildings that are 18 metres or more in height or have 7 or more storeys, and that contain at least two residential units.
These buildings are subject to stricter safety regulations and oversight, including mandatory reporting, safety case reports, and adherence to enhanced fire and structural safety measures. The designation of HRBs ensures that their unique risks are proactively managed to safeguard residents.
For property managers, understanding HRB requirements is crucial for compliance. Implementing tools to track and manage these requirements effectively can help ensure the safety of both the building and its occupants.
Housing Ombudsman Report
The Housing Ombudsman Report is an official publication issued by the Housing Ombudsman, highlighting systemic issues in the housing sector and providing recommendations for improvement.
The report may include case studies, trends, and insights related to complaints, service delivery, and building safety concerns. For property managers, the report serves as a valuable resource to understand tenant grievances and implement proactive measures, such as leveraging technology solutions to improve compliance and engagement.
Leaseholder
A Leaseholder is an individual who holds a lease to occupy a property for a specific period. Under the Building Safety Act 2022, leaseholders have certain rights and responsibilities, particularly concerning safety and the cost of remedial works on unsafe cladding or other hazards. Property managers should communicate clearly with leaseholders about their obligations and assist them with any safety-related issues.
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) are tailored plans designed to ensure the safe evacuation of individuals with specific needs or disabilities during an emergency. These plans consider the unique requirements of each individual, such as mobility challenges, and outline clear steps for their safe evacuation. Property managers should work with residents to develop and maintain up-to-date PEEPs, ensuring that everyone in the building can evacuate safely in an emergency.
Principal Accountable Person (PAP)
The Principal Accountable Person (PAP) is the primary individual or organisation responsible for ensuring the safety and compliance of a building under the Building Safety Act 2022. The PAP oversees the building’s safety management, coordinates with other accountable persons, and ensures all safety measures are implemented and maintained. They are crucial in maintaining a safe environment for all occupants and ensuring compliance with the Act’s requirements.
Principal Contractor
The Principal Contractor is the main contractor responsible for coordinating and managing the construction phase of a project. They ensure that all work is carried out safely and in compliance with building regulations. Property managers must ensure that the Principal Contractor adheres to safety protocols and communicates effectively with all stakeholders involved in the project.
Remediation
Remediation refers to the process of making a building safe by addressing identified hazards or defects. This may involve replacing unsafe cladding, repairing structural issues, or improving fire safety systems. The Building Safety Fund can be utilised to assist with remediation costs. Property managers must ensure that remediation work is carried out promptly and effectively to maintain safety and compliance.
Resident Engagement Strategy (RES)
The Resident Engagement Strategy (RES) is a plan developed by the Accountable Person to communicate effectively with residents about safety matters. It includes mechanisms for gathering feedback from residents, ensuring transparency, and involving them in safety-related decisions and actions. Residential property managers play a key role in developing and implementing these strategies to keep residents informed and engaged in safety matters.
Safety Case Report
The Safety Case Report is a comprehensive document that outlines how a high-rise residential building is managed to ensure safety. It includes details of fire and structural risk assessments, safety measures in place, and plans for ongoing risk management. This report is required to be regularly updated and submitted to the Building Safety Regulator. Property managers should coordinate with safety professionals to prepare and maintain this report to ensure compliance and safety.
Safety Certificate
A Safety Certificate is an official document that confirms a building has met specific safety standards and requirements. It is issued after inspections and assessments have been conducted and is necessary for the legal operation of high-rise residential buildings. Property managers are responsible for obtaining and maintaining up-to-date safety certificates for their buildings.
Safety Management System
A Safety Management System is a formal framework that helps organisations identify, assess, and manage safety risks. It includes policies, procedures, and practices designed to ensure the safety of a building’s occupants and the compliance of the building with relevant legislation. Residential property managers should implement robust safety management systems to protect tenants and comply with the Building Safety Act 2022.
Section 20 Consultation
A Section 20 Consultation is a legal process under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 that requires landlords to consult with leaseholders before undertaking major works or entering into long-term agreements that will cost leaseholders more than a specified amount. This process ensures that leaseholders are informed and can provide feedback on the proposed works. Property managers must facilitate this consultation process and ensure compliance with the relevant legal requirements.
Temporary Safety Measures
Temporary Safety Measures are interim actions taken to ensure the safety of a building and its occupants while permanent solutions are being implemented. This may include installing fire alarms, implementing evacuation plans, or conducting regular safety checks. Property managers should assess and implement necessary temporary safety measures to protect residents and comply with safety regulations.
Summary
Staying ahead of the curve is essential for residential property managers, leaseholders, and residents to ensure safety and compliance under the Building Safety Act 2022.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Book a Demo Today!
With powerful communication features, document management, reporting, automated task scheduling and more, Spike’s solutions are designed to simplify compliance, streamline safety management, and ensure you meet all legal obligations.
Get in touch with our team today to learn how our solutions can help you become more compliant and confident in your building safety practices.
Your journey to compliance and enhanced building safety begins with Spike.
Property operators today face increasing pressure to juggle building safety, sustainability, and resident satisfaction – all while staying compliant and managing admin-heavy processes. With 2025 bringing new regulations and rising resident expectations, the need for smart, streamlined solutions has never been greater. Staying competitive in a rapidly changing market means adopting technology that not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances resident satisfaction and engagement.
Fortunately, innovative platforms like Spike are transforming the way operators manage properties, easing admin burdens and driving stronger engagement.
Here are the key property trends to watch in 2025 and how Spike can help future-proof your developments:
1.) Focus on Building Safety and Compliance
Safety and compliance will remain a top priority, especially with evolving regulations. Property managers must ensure buildings meet updated health, fire, and safety standards. New regulations under the UK Building Safety Act 2022 will become mandatory in 2025, requiring property managers to provide regular building safety reports and resident communication regarding safety measures. According to Property Wire, landlords in 2025 will also need to maintain robust risk assessments and ensure that emergency procedures are clearly communicated to all residents, highlighting the increasing responsibility placed on landlords to proactively manage building safety.
The HomeViews Build-to-Rent Report 2024 revealed that resident satisfaction reached its highest level in 2024, marking a strong rebound from the dip experienced in 2022. Management ratings saw the greatest improvement, with 46% of reviews for the top 10 communities highlighting ‘quick,’ ‘prompt,’ or ‘efficient’ responses. This underscores the vital role of professional and responsive management teams in boosting resident satisfaction. Investing in platforms like Spike not only streamlines building safety and compliance but also enhances communication and overall resident experience – key factors in maintaining high satisfaction levels.
How to Adapt: Staying on top of safety audits is essential, and leveraging Spike’s maintenance management feature to schedule and automate routine maintenance tasks ensures that essential checks, such as fire alarm testing and emergency lighting inspections, are never overlooked. By automating regular safety checks and workflows, Spike can reduce admin time by up to 30%, freeing up your team to focus on resident experience and property growth.
Leveraging Spike’s maintenance management feature also allows residents to easily log maintenance requests through the app, ensuring these are sent directly to property management. Critical tasks can be prioritised, preventing essential issues from being overlooked or lost in communication. This streamlined process enhances operational efficiency while improving resident satisfaction.
Property managers can also share building safety updates and necessary documentation with residents fosters transparency and trust. Additionally, scheduling regular safety training for both residents and staff can create a culture of awareness and preparedness, further strengthening building safety protocols.
Imagine this: A resident reports a leaking tap through their resident app, and the request is automatically assigned to the nearest available technician. The resident receives real-time updates, and the issue is resolved within 24 hours. No phone calls, no follow-ups. This level of seamless interaction enhances satisfaction and reduces the admin burden on your team.
2.) Sustainability as a Standard
Sustainability is no longer a differentiator; it’s an expectation. In 2025, residents will demand eco-friendly living spaces that minimise environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient buildings, green spaces, and waste reduction initiatives.
According to a 2024 survey by JLL, 74% of tenants are willing to pay a premium for properties with sustainable features, and 65% expect landlords to implement green initiatives. Additionally, new legislation such as the UK’s Future Homes Standard, set to take effect in 2025, will require new builds to produce 75-80% less carbon emissions than current homes.
The energy bills surge and the cost-of-living crisis, which continues into 2025, has increased awareness of energy efficiency, with one in five tenants stating it will be a major factor when choosing a home.
How to Adapt: Going green isn’t just about meeting regulations – it’s what your residents want. With Spike, you can drive sustainability initiatives that get your community involved, reduce energy use, and boost property value. Spike can promote community recycling events and share sustainability tips, fostering a culture of green living. Having a green culture in place can enable property management to apply for certifications such as BREEAM or LEED further solidify a property’s commitment to sustainability, increasing property value and appeal.
2.) Community-Driven Engagement
Residents are increasingly valuing connection and community within their living environments. Engaged communities lead to higher retention rates and improved resident satisfaction. A recent study by NMHC found that 83% of residents are more likely to renew their lease if they feel a sense of community in their building. This trend is driven by the increasing desire for social interaction post-pandemic and a growing demand for curated community experiences.
To inspire engagement and build a stronger sense of community, consider organising events, fitness classes, or communal projects. Property managers have seen great success by hosting ‘meet your neighbour’ nights, themed holiday events, and interactive workshops, such as cooking or DIY classes, all of which foster interaction and create lasting relationships among residents.
How to Adapt: Spike’s award-winning resident engagement platform makes it easy to foster communication and build connections. By organising events, conducting resident surveys, and facilitating community feedback, Spike helps property managers strengthen bonds and create vibrant living environments. Developing wellness programs, shared interest groups, and networking events further cultivates a thriving, connected community that residents want to be part of.
3.) Tech-Enhanced Living
Smart home integrations and app-based resident portals will continue to redefine convenience and security in 2025.
A recent survey by NMHC found that 73% of residents express a strong preference for buildings with resident apps, citing convenience and communication as key benefits, and this number is expected to rise.
As demand for seamless digital interactions grows, property managers are recognising the importance of investing in resident-facing technology to attract and retain tenants.
How to Adapt: With Spike, property managers can offer a fully digitalised living experience, encompassing keyless entry systems, parcel management solutions, digital concierge services and more. Our integration with Utopi smart meters also allows for real-time energy tracking, empowering residents to monitor and optimise their consumption. This seamless, app-based approach not only enhances convenience but also strengthens security and operational efficiency across the property.
4.) Flexible and Hybrid Spaces
As remote working continues, residents seek developments with adaptable spaces for work and leisure. Multi-use communal areas and co-working spaces will rise in demand. A Knight Frank report highlights that 67% of renters are looking for properties with dedicated co-working spaces, and 59% consider flexible amenities a deciding factor when choosing a property.
What’s more, according to the HomeViews Build-to-Rent Report 2024, the most common amenities in top-rated communities include co-working spaces, resident lounges, and multi-use communal areas. These spaces not only enhance day-to-day living but also provide the versatility residents crave – allowing for quiet work environments during the day and social gatherings in the evening. Properties that offer these features consistently receive higher satisfaction ratings and experience better retention rates.
How to Adapt: Spike simplifies the management of communal spaces by facilitating digital bookings and tracking availability, ensuring fair access for all residents. Repurposing underutilised areas into co-working or relaxation spaces can cater to evolving needs, while modular designs allow for easy reconfiguration to suit different purposes. This adaptability creates a more vibrant living experience, enhancing property appeal to modern renters.
Make 2025 Your Year of Transformation with Spike
As we move into 2025, the property sector will be driven by sustainability, building safety, and tech-enabled community engagement. Embracing these trends will be crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and resident satisfaction.
At Spike, we’ve empowered our clients to stay ahead of the curve, transforming their developments year after year. Now, it’s your turn.
Book a demo today and discover how Spike can help you navigate the future of property management in 2025 and beyond!
As 2024 comes to an end, we reflect on a meaningful year working alongside Hope for Food, our chosen charity partner. At the start of the year, we committed to making a difference in our local community by supporting their vital mission to combat food poverty and provide assistance to vulnerable individuals.
Hope for Food work tirelessly to ensure that no one in our area goes hungry, offering meals, food parcels, and support services to those in need. Their dedication to community well-being perfectly aligns with our values at Spike, and we are proud to have supported their efforts through volunteering, fundraising, and donations.
Volunteering: Supporting the Community Hands-On
Community Meals Initiative
A key part of our charity work this year was volunteering at Hope for Food’s incredible community meals initiative. Throughout the year, our colleagues generously opened up their own kitchens to prepare and cook a variety of hot meals. Once the meals were ready, serving teams transported them to Hope for Food’s community meals initiative in Bournemouth, where we joined forces with the charity and volunteers to set up tables and help distribute hot meals, clothing, and more, whilst engaging in meaningful conversations with guests, ensuring everyone felt supported and listened to.
The impact of this work was profound. For many guests, it was their first hot meal in days – a simple yet vital necessity that brought comfort and nourishment. The provision of clothing and other essentials addressed immediate physical needs, while the act of engaging in conversation helped alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are closely linked to homelessness.
We were amazed by the number of regular volunteers who dedicate their time to this initiative. Their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to supporting those in need were truly inspiring. The community meals provided a safe space where individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Witnessing the strength of our community coming together in solidarity and compassion was a humbling experience and one that left a lasting impression on all of us.
Food Bank Donations
To further support Hope for Food, we delivered food donations filled with essential items to help restock the charity’s shelves. These contributions included pantry staples, toiletries, and other necessities, providing support to families in our local area.
As part of this initiative, we set up a food donation box in our office, where staff could contribute items such as tinned goods, tea bags, and pasta sauces. This simple effort fostered a spirit of generosity among our team. By working together, we were able to meet immediate needs and help families facing food insecurity.
Fundraising: Uniting for a Cause
Run Bournemouth 2024
A highlight of our charity efforts was our participation in Run Bournemouth 2024. In October, a team of Spike colleagues took to the streets, running the Supersonic 10k route to raise funds and awareness for Hope for Food.
The event was more than just a race; it was a chance to come together as a team, push our limits, and show solidarity for a cause that supports so many. The energy of the day, shared with colleagues and members of the community, exemplified the spirit of our commitment. The funds raised went directly to Hope for Food’s invaluable work in providing meals and essential support services.
Bournemouth Plane Pull 2024
We also joined forces with Burns Hamilton, Dorset Mind, and Lyall Coffee to take part in the Bournemouth Plane Pull on the August bank holiday. This unique challenge involved pulling a 37,000kg Boeing 737 in just 43 seconds, all in support of Dorset Mind’s vital mental health services.
Thanks to the combined efforts of everyone involved, we raised close to £5,000, helping to support Dorset Mind’s mission to provide essential mental health services. The Plane Pull wasn’t just about strength – it was a powerful statement about our commitment to supporting those battling mental health challenges and promoting awareness in our community.
Macmillan Coffee Morning
We also held a Macmillan Coffee Morning to support those living with cancer. Staff brought in a delightful array of cakes, pastries, and other treats, creating a feast that not only satisfied sweet cravings but also raised over £500.
These funds will help Macmillan continue their incredible work, funding nurses and support lines for individuals and families affected by cancer. This event highlighted the generosity and community spirit of the Spike team, showcasing our dedication to making a difference across various causes.
A Year of Compassion and Collaboration
Through a combination of volunteering efforts, fundraising activities, and the incredible support of our colleagues and partners, we’ve made a tangible difference in supporting vital community initiatives this year. Together, we raised significant funds and contributed countless hours to help Hope for Food and other charitable causes. These efforts provided essential resources such as meals, clothing, and support services for vulnerable individuals and families.
The impact of our charity work extended beyond financial contributions. By organising volunteering and fundraising events, we brought our team closer together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose. These shared experiences strengthened our company culture, creating a more collaborative, compassionate, and engaged workplace. The benefits of these efforts were felt not only by the communities we supported but also within Spike, as staff well-being and morale flourished.
Thank you to Hope for Food
Hope for Food’s unwavering dedication and hard work have been truly inspiring throughout our partnership. Their tireless efforts to combat food poverty and support those in need have had a profound impact on the local community. It has been an honour to work alongside their incredible team this year, and we have learned so much from their expertise and passion.
As our Charity of the Year for 2024, Hope for Food set a remarkable example of what can be achieved when we work together to support those in need. This partnership has not only made a difference in the lives of others but has also left a lasting impression on everyone here at Spike.
Learn more about Hope for Food and how you can support their work here.
What’s next?
As this year draws to a close, we’re excited to build on the momentum of our 2024 initiatives and continue our commitment to giving back.
Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2025 Charity of the Year in January, we can’t wait to embark on another impactful journey!
2024 has been a year of significant transformation for the property industry, marked by stricter regulations, economic challenges, and evolving social expectations. These dynamics have demanded adaptability, innovation, and resilience from property managers and solution providers alike.
At Spike, we have embraced these challenges, adapting and enhancing our solutions to empower our clients and meet the ever-changing demands of the industry. Here’s how we’ve supported our clients in overcoming the year’s most pressing challenges:
1.) Addressing Stricter Building Safety Legislation
These changes are not merely recommendations, but legal requirements designed to enhance safety and accountability. The introduction of these measures has intensified the demand for effective tools to manage compliance and communication.
Spike has risen to the challenge by enhancing Spike Living to meet these new legislative demands. Our platform empowers property operators to achieve the ‘golden thread’ of building safety and boost compliance by providing:
Centralised Document Management and Information Sharing
Our platform enables secure document sharing, allowing property managers to upload and distribute essential materials such as floorplans, fire evacuation plans, and resident engagement strategies. This functionality supports compliance with legal requirements while ensuring residents have access to critical safety information at all times.
Resident Maintenance Handling
Residents can easily submit maintenance queries through the platform, ensuring property management teams can view and resolve these issues quickly. This system enhances the speed and efficiency of maintenance handling, ensuring issues are addressed in a timely manner. This not only helps meet resident expectations for service but also prevents potential safety concerns from escalating, maintaining compliance and resident trust.
Scheduling and Automation of Maintenance Tasks
Our platform automates the scheduling and reminders for routine maintenance tasks such as fire door inspections and ventilation checks. This proactive approach is essential for compliance with building safety legislation, including Awaab’s Law, which prioritises mould prevention and overall fire safety. By automating these checks, property managers can stay ahead of required standards, ensuring that crucial safety measures are consistently carried out, reducing risks and safeguarding the wellbeing of residents.
Streamlined Communication
Real-time updates and announcements ensure that residents receive critical safety information promptly. Residents are also able to access the concierge around the clock with the build in live chat feature. By integrating automated notifications and a user-friendly interface, Spike Living fosters transparency and builds trust between residents.
Audit Trails to Achieve the Golden Thread
Our platform automatically tracks all interactions, document exchanges, and updates. This clear, accessible record is invaluable for demonstrating compliance, aiding building operators in adhering to stringent legal requirements.
As well as many more features which have been instrumental in helping the industry tackle the complex demands of the new legislation while prioritising resident safety and confidence.
2.) Supporting Property Managers and Residents Through Economic Pressures and Wellness Challenges
Economic challenges, including inflation and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, as well as the property management shortage, have placed increased strain on both property managers and residents.
Simultaneously, societal shifts have amplified the importance of health, wellness, and community connections. Residents now prioritise living environments that support mental and physical well-being, seeking spaces that foster social interaction, sustainability, and personal growth.
Spike Living addresses these intertwined concerns by offering tools and integrations that streamline operations while fostering well-being:
Resident Wellness
Spike Living’s enables property managers to create healthier, more connected communities by providing features designed to support both physical and mental well-being. Through the platform, managers can promote wellness-focused events, such as yoga classes or mental health workshops, and facilitate access to amenities designed for relaxation or fitness. By fostering such initiatives, property managers can enhance resident satisfaction and create a more vibrant sense of community.
Property Management Wellness
Recognising the pressures faced by property management teams, Spike Living introduces automation tools that alleviate administrative burdens. By digitising repetitive tasks such as maintenance scheduling, rent collection, and document sharing, the platform allows teams to focus on high-value activities, reducing stress and improving productivity. These efficiencies, coupled with seamless integrations like Fixflo or Quadient, streamline operations and maintain high service standards, contributing to better work-life balance for property managers.
These features not only improve the well-being of communities but also help property managers navigate economic pressures, elevating the overall value and appeal of residential developments.
3.) Championing Sustainability Amid Tightening Energy Efficiency Standards
With governments prioritising energy efficiency and climate action, 2024 has seen the introduction of measures to meet ambitious carbon neutrality and energy efficiency goals.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) has mandated stricter energy ratings for residential properties across Europe, impacting residential property management practices. Additionally, the cost of energy has remained high, increasing the urgency for sustainable practices to reduce costs and emissions.
With sustainability a top priority, property managers have turned to digital solutions to minimise their environmental impact. Spike Living has been a valuable partner in this transition, offering features that support greener property management practices:
Paper-Free Operations
Spike Living is entirely digitised, allowing property managers to operate without paper. This approach supports sustainability by reducing waste, contributing to more eco-friendly management practices, and enhancing operational efficiency.
Energy Initiatives and Community Engagement
Through the portal, managers can promote green living initiatives, such as community recycling programmes or energy-saving tips, fostering a culture of sustainability among residents. This can be facilitated through the event booking feature, dedicated sustainability forums and more.
Future Ready: Innovating for Tomorrow’s Property Management
As 2024 comes to a close, Spike remains committed to continuous innovation and adaptability. We understand that the challenges faced this year are just the start of an ongoing industry-wide transformation. By staying ahead of legislative, economic, and social changes, we aim to empower property managers and operators to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Spike Living is continuously scalable and adaptable, designed to grow with the needs of our clients and the changing property management landscape. Through continuous advancements in our technology and anticipation of future trends, we help our clients not just overcome challenges, but excel in delivering exceptional resident experiences.
Ready to make 2025 your most successful year yet? Get in touch today to see how Spike Living can transform your property management strategy.
For property managers, this presents a golden opportunity to enhance resident experiences and foster a stronger sense of community. At the same time, these busy months can add stress to the workload of property staff, but Spike Living is here to help reduce that burden.
Spike Living not only elevates the resident experience but also streamlines property management tasks, making it easier than ever to balance festive cheer with operational efficiency. Here’s how:
Parcel Management for Holiday Deliveries
The Christmas season brings a significant increase in parcel deliveries as residents order gifts, decorations, and festive supplies. Managing this influx can quickly become overwhelming, but Spike’s parcel management system, along with our Parcel Pending by Quadient integration, helps property staff keep things running smoothly.
With automated notifications, residents are promptly informed when packages arrive, allowing them to collect their deliveries at a time that suits them. This reduces the need for property managers to answer parcel-related queries, streamlining the process and easing the workload. During the busy holiday season, this feature ensures a seamless experience, giving residents peace of mind and freeing up staff to focus on other tasks.
The winter months bring unique challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining property infrastructure. Spike Living’s maintenance reminder feature allows property managers to proactively communicate essential tasks, such as heating system checks or snow clearance schedules. This ensures that residents are prepared for seasonal changes, promoting safety and comfort during the colder months.
Additionally, residents can easily send maintenance requests through the platform, which can be tracked and monitored throughout the process. This feature reduces the workload on property staff by centralising all maintenance tasks and allowing for efficient follow-ups. Property managers can monitor progress, ensure timely responses, and maintain a smooth flow of communication without the need for constant check-ins.
With this system in place, along with our Fixflo integration, property managers can reduce stress, stay ahead of any potential issues, and keep residents informed, creating a warm, welcoming environment during the festive season.
Digital Events Booking for Festive Celebrations
The holidays are the perfect time for bringing people together, and Spike Living’s event booking feature makes it simple to organise holiday celebrations. Whether hosting a Christmas tree-decorating party or a New Year’s Eve bash, residents can book and stay updated on event details through the platform, streamlining the entire process for property managers.
This feature not only fosters a sense of community but also reduces the time property staff would otherwise spend handling event bookings and organising logistics.
For property managers seeking inspiration, Spike’s 2024 Community Engagement Guide is packed with creative ideas to make holiday events special. From crafting workshops to holiday movie nights, the guide offers actionable suggestions tailored to enhancing resident satisfaction and fostering a sense of togetherness.
Exclusive Christmas Promotions
The holiday season is a time of giving, and exclusive promotions are a fantastic way to show appreciation for your residents. Through Spike Living, you can share offers from local businesses, such as discounts on holiday meals, festive shopping deals, or even New Year’s fitness packages.
Not only do these promotions enhance the resident experience, but they also strengthen partnerships with local businesses, positioning your property as an integral part of the wider community.
Engage Residents with Seasonal News & Updates
Spike Living‘s news feature is a hub for festive updates, ensuring residents stay informed about seasonal happenings. Property managers can share information about local Christmas markets, community carol services, and nearby winter wonderlands.
In addition to event updates, you can also use this feature to highlight important announcements, such as holiday office hours or safety tips for the colder months.
This feature saves time by reducing the need for multiple emails or in-person updates. It allows property managers to share important information in one place, streamlining communication and reducing the workload for staff, all while keeping residents well-informed and engaged.
24/7 Amenity Reservations for Festive Moments
During the holiday season, communal spaces like dining rooms, gyms, and screening rooms become highly sought-after. Last year, we saw a significant increase in amenity bookings, as residents took advantage of these spaces to host Christmas dinners, organise festive movie marathons, and ramp up their fitness routines ahead of the New Year’s celebrations.
Spike Living’s amenity booking feature simplifies the booking process by allowing residents to reserve specific time slots directly through the app. This ensures that shared spaces are utilised efficiently and fairly, while avoiding double bookings and scheduling conflicts. For property managers, this feature alleviates the stress of managing these high-demand spaces, automating the booking system and keeping everything organised. No more juggling schedules or responding to last-minute booking requests – Spike Living takes care of it all.
By streamlining the booking process, property managers can focus on delivering excellent resident experiences, while reducing their workload during this busy time of year.
Bring Joy to Your Community with Spike
This festive season, Spike Living not only provides the tools to create a seamless and festive experience for your residents but also reduces the strain on your staff by automating key processes. By streamlining parcel management, event bookings, amenity reservations, and communication, property managers can enjoy a smoother holiday season while enhancing the resident experience.
Ready to see how Spike Living can transform your property this holiday season? Book a personalised demo today and see how our platform can bring your community closer this holiday season.
As the property management sector continues to adapt to new regulations and increased scrutiny, the latest Housing Ombudsman report highlighting over 100 severe cases of maladministration related to damp and mould serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for better property management practices. These cases reflect a range of failures, from delayed responses to inadequate repair work and poor communication with residents.
This report follows shortly after our previous blog on Awaab’s Law, where we explored the legal obligations surrounding damp and mould and the devastating impact these issues can have on residents. With the Housing Ombudsman’s findings revealing that damp and mould complaints remain a significant challenge, the question arises: how can property managers ensure they are not only compliant but also proactive in preventing these issues from escalating?
Why This Matters Now More Than Ever
The timing of this report couldn’t be more crucial. Following the enactment of Awaab’s Law, property managers now face stricter compliance requirements, with penalties for non-compliance growing more severe. Awaab’s Law mandates landlords to address mould and damp problems within strict time frames and ensures that tenants have better avenues for reporting these issues.
However, as the Housing Ombudsman report reveals, it’s not just about having the right policies in place; it’s about the effectiveness of implementation. This is a reminder that compliance alone isn’t enough – property managers must actively engage with tenants, ensuring that their concerns are heard and that solutions are both timely and sustainable.
At Spike, we know that effective property management relies on seamless communication and efficient workflows. Our award-winning Spike Living platform is designed to help property managers address damp and mould issues quickly and efficiently, ensuring that all tasks, from reporting to resolution, are tracked and completed in real-time, with the golden thread of information easily accessible.
How Spike Living Can Help Address Damp and Mould Issues
Spike Living offers a range of features that can be integral in preventing, managing, and resolving damp and mould issues:
1.) Real-Time Reporting and Communication Delays in addressing damp and mould issues can have serious consequences, not just for tenant health but for your reputation as a property manager. Clear communication channels and a system to track complaints can prevent issues from spiraling out of control.
What’s more, many of the Ombudsman’s findings pointed to a breakdown in trust between tenants and property managers. Keeping residents informed about the steps you’re taking to resolve their complaints is critical for maintaining good relationships and ensuring their concerns are addressed promptly.
With Spike Living, tenants can easily report damp and mould issues through the platform, ensuring their concerns are logged promptly. Property managers are immediately notified, enabling fast action to address the issue. The platform’s built-in messaging system allows seamless communication with residents, ensuring they are informed of progress and outcomes.
The platform integrates with tools like Fixflo, enhancing the repair and maintenance workflow. This ensures that reports are automatically transferred to the correct teams for action, allowing residents’ concerns to be addressed promptly and efficiently.
2.) Maintenance Tracking and Scheduling for Proactive Maintenance Preventative measures, such as regular property inspections and maintenance checks, can go a long way in identifying and mitigating damp and mould risks before they become major issues. Ensure your team is trained to spot early signs of these problems.
Spike Living allows property managers to schedule, set reminders for regular property inspections and track maintenance tasks. With a centralised system to manage repairs, you can ensure that any issues related to damp or mould are identified and addressed quickly, before they escalate.
The platform also provides data-driven insights that allow property managers to identify recurring issues across properties. If there are patterns related to damp or mould, this can trigger proactive action, such as improving ventilation or scheduling more frequent inspections in affected areas.
3.) Documentation and Case Management As the report demonstrates, maladministration cases often arise from a lack of thorough documentation. It’s essential to keep records of all communications, repairs, and inspections related to damp and mould issues to avoid potential legal challenges.
Spike Living allows property managers to document all complaints, communications, and resolutions in one place. This feature provides a comprehensive record of all actions taken to resolve damp and mould issues, which is critical for compliance and accountability, especially when dealing with regulatory bodies or in the event of a dispute.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Property Managers
As the Housing Ombudsman report and Awaab’s Law highlight, it’s clear that the traditional methods of property management may no longer be sufficient to meet the demands of today’s regulatory environment. Property managers must embrace a more proactive and technology-driven approach to keep pace with evolving regulations and resident expectations.
Spike Living not only helps property managers stay compliant with the latest legislation but also fosters better communication with residents, ensuring that issues like damp and mould are reported and resolved in real-time. By leveraging technology, property managers can stay one step ahead, helping to avoid the pitfalls outlined in the Ombudsman’s report, and ensuring they provide the safest, healthiest living conditions for their residents.
Book a demo today to learn how Spike Living can help you stay on top of damp and mould issues and maintain the safety of your properties.
