Once considered niche, sustainability has moved into the mainstream of UK property. From institutional investors to individual landlords, expectations around environmental and social responsibility are rising.

If you’re in property management or lettings, now is the time to understand the role of ESG and biodiversity—and how to respond in a way that’s both practical and future-proof.

What does ESG mean in property?

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance. In property, this covers:

• Environmental: Energy use, carbon emissions, water management, biodiversity
• Social: Tenant well-being, housing standards, community impact
• Governance: Compliance, transparency, ethical practices

A growing number of buyers and renters now consider ESG credentials as part of their decision-making. In fact, 79% of UK real estate professionals say ESG is influencing investor behaviour, according to Savills.

Source: Savills – Top Sustainability Trends for 2025
Source: UK Green Building Council – ESG in the Built Environment

Biodiversity: The new compliance priority

Biodiversity is more than a buzzword—it’s becoming a legal obligation. Under new planning rules, developments in England must deliver a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain (BNG) from January 2024 onwards.

Even if you’re not building from scratch, there are practical implications:

• Landscaping upgrades for rental units
• Green roofs and permeable surfaces
• Community gardens or pollinator-friendly spaces
• Tracking biodiversity enhancements in portfolios

Source: DEFRA – Biodiversity Net Gain Guidance

What it means for landlords and property managers

Whether you manage a small portfolio or oversee multiple sites, ESG and biodiversity trends affect:

• Tenant retention: Renters increasingly expect sustainable, well-managed homes
• Property value: Energy-efficient, green-rated homes command higher premiums
• Operational risks: ESG neglect can lead to higher voids, legal issues, or reputational damage

But with new rules, audits, and upgrades to track, ESG compliance can be overwhelming, especially without extra hands.

Seamless support for ESG compliance and execution

At Seamless, we provide remote professionals who help property businesses plan, track, and communicate ESG efforts effectively.

How we can help:

• Coordinating contractors for green upgrades
• Tracking sustainability data and compliance deadlines
• Supporting tenant communications and ESG reporting
• Researching available funding for sustainability initiatives

Read: Helping a Property Manager Scale with Structure

Whether you’re planting bee-friendly gardens or digitising your compliance reports, Seamless gives you the operational power to make it happen.

Not sure where to start?

If you’re ESG-curious but unsure how to take action, here’s a quick roadmap:

1. Audit your current position: EPC ratings, green space, waste, and tenant engagement
2. Prioritise quick wins: LED lighting, draft proofing, digital compliance logs
3. Develop a plan: Start small and scale—track everything
4. Outsource the admin: Focus on strategic decisions, not data entry

Explore our Property Management Services to see how we can support your sustainability journey.

Final thought

Sustainability isn’t just for large developers—it’s a new benchmark for every property professional. With rising regulation and growing tenant demand, those who take ESG seriously will lead the market in 2025 and beyond.

Want help delivering greener, more compliant property services? Get started with Seamless today