As we enter 2025, it’s remarkable to see how the facilities management sector has evolved over the past year. Sonia Murton’s FM sector predictions 2024 article discusses key challenges and opportunities, including sustainability, proactive maintenance, and workforce development. These themes remain central but are now joined by new priorities that reflect the rapid pace of regulatory, environmental, and social change in the UK. Here are Sonia’s predictions on the challenges and opportunities for the FM sector in 2025, focusing on sustainability, social housing, corporate responsibility, and the skills gap.
1. Sustainability and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
Facilities Management Sector: Stricter government regulations around EPCs are reshaping the FM landscape. Commercial properties, Social housing, and public sector buildings must meet higher standards for energy efficiency. Estates and Facilities Managers must prioritise retrofitting ageing systems, upgrading insulation, and integrating renewable energy solutions to ensure compliance and reduce environmental impact. At Westbury FM, we foresee an increased demand for services focusing on the energy performance of buildings. Maintenance teams will play a pivotal role in optimising HVAC systems and monitoring energy consumption through real-time data. These initiatives will help organisations align with the UK’s net-zero targets while cutting operational costs.
2. Enhanced Maintenance Strategies for Social Housing
Social housing maintenance strategies remain on the agenda, but ageing infrastructure and budget pressures pose challenges. In 2025, the emphasis will shift even more towards proactive maintenance strategies. Tenant well-being will be prioritised, improving indoor air quality and tackling persistent issues like dampness and mould. Our previous articles, such as “The Dangers of Poor Ventilation and Mould in Social Housing”, underline the critical importance of addressing these issues comprehensively. Collaboration between FM providers, local councils, and housing associations will drive improvements. We can ensure sustainable, healthy living environments by adopting energy-efficient technologies and tenant-focused service delivery.
3. Social Value and Corporate Responsibility in Property Maintenance
The FM sector is under increasing pressure to demonstrate its social value. Clients expect more than maintenance; they want to see a tangible positive impact on communities. This shift means repair and maintenance providers must embed corporate responsibility into their own operations. Social housing landlords have a paramount duty of care to tenants. This duty goes beyond fulfilling legal obligations and includes providing safe, healthy, and conducive accommodation for a decent quality of life. This responsibility requires proactively addressing fundamental issues such as damp, mould, and poor ventilation rather than reactively. Housing providers must also invest in preventative measures, ensuring long-term sustainability and reducing the need for costly emergency repairs.
Corporate responsibility in property maintenance extends to fostering community well-being. Employing local tradespeople and contractors not only supports the local economy but also builds trust within communities. Engaging tenants in maintenance planning and sustainability initiatives ensures their voices are heard, creating a collaborative approach to property management.
Westbury FM remains committed to these principles, focusing on self-delivering maintenance solutions that enhance buildings and the lives of those in them.
4. Bridging the Construction Skills Gap
The construction skills gap remains a pressing issue. As the FM sector grows, so does the demand for skilled labour. In my last article, “Bridging the Construction Skills Gap: A Call for Change”, I highlighted the urgent need for more apprenticeships, upskilling programmes, and innovative training initiatives.
In 2025, we expect to see a surge in collaborative efforts between industry leaders, educational institutions, and the government. Westbury FM is committed to investing in workforce development and ensuring our teams are equipped to deliver exceptional service across sectors. Addressing the skills gap is not just about meeting demand; it’s about building a resilient, future-ready industry, and we are proud to play a leading role in addressing this challenge. Self-delivered via a team of directly employed, in-house engineers, we provide a comprehensive suite of planned and 24/7 reactive hard, fabric, and soft FM services.
Our commitment to workforce development ensures that our teams have the skills and expertise to deliver exceptional service across all sectors. By investing in training, apprenticeships, and upskilling programmes, Westbury FM is helping to bridge the construction skills gap. This effort is not just about meeting the increasing demand for skilled labour; it’s about building a resilient, future-ready FM sector that can adapt to tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The FM sector in 2025 will be defined by its adaptability and innovation. At Westbury, we are proud to lead the way, combining excellence in self-delivery with our people-first philosophy. Whether enhancing energy performance, championing social value, or addressing labour shortages, we remain dedicated to delivering solutions that benefit our clients and communities.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the challenges and opportunities ahead. Let’s keep the conversation going. Please feel free to comment or connect with me directly. Together, we can shape the future of FM in the UK.
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