Property Services Face Uncertainty

Posted on April 7, 2025 in General Info

Navigating Economic Headwinds: How Global Tariffs and Economic Pressures Could Impact the UK Cleaning and Maintenance Sector

Property Services Face Uncertainty – As the global economy faces increased turbulence—fuelled in part by the latest round of US tariffs and geopolitical uncertainties—property professionals across the UK are rightly considering how these macroeconomic shifts may affect their supply chains, service partners, and long-term asset management strategies.

At Protech Property Solutions, with over 35 years of experience supporting property management companies throughout London and the Home Counties, we are acutely aware of how international developments can ripple through even the most local of service ecosystems. The cleaning and maintenance industry, often viewed as a stable and predictable part of the property management puzzle, is not immune to these changes.

Understanding the Tariff Landscape

Recent tariff escalations by the United States—targeting key imports such as steel, aluminium, electrical components, and various raw materials—have not only strained transatlantic trade relations but also contributed to broader market volatility. While the UK is not directly subject to all these tariffs, the interconnected nature of global supply chains means that the ripple effect is already being felt here at home.

Many of the tools, machinery, and consumables used in the cleaning and maintenance sector—such as power washers, vacuum systems, lighting components, and chemical products—contain parts sourced or manufactured in markets affected by these tariffs. As a result, UK suppliers are facing increased costs, which may in turn be passed down the chain.

The Pressure on Operational Costs

For property managers, this has several implications. With inflationary pressures still present and supply chain unpredictability affecting lead times and pricing, even outsourced property services like cleaning and maintenance are not immune to price reviews.

Labour costs, too, are rising. The UK’s National Living Wage increase, while welcome and necessary, adds further pressure on service providers to rebalance their operational models. For companies like Protech Property Solutions, this means continuing to innovate and streamline processes—without compromising the high standards our clients expect.

Quality and Continuity in Challenging Times

The challenge for the property services sector lies in balancing budgets while ensuring estate standards are maintained. Clean, well-maintained communal spaces aren’t just a luxury—they are vital for tenant satisfaction, asset longevity, and property value. Now, more than ever, working with a partner that understands the pressure points and can offer flexible, value-driven solutions is essential.

At Protech, we remain committed to offering tailored support that reflects the realities of today’s economic climate. Whether it’s sourcing sustainable, UK-based suppliers to reduce exposure to foreign tariffs, or investing in staff training to maximise efficiency on-site, our goal is to deliver uncompromised service—at competitive rates.

What Property Managers Should Consider

For property professionals, now is a good time to reassess your service contracts and ensure your providers are proactive in mitigating economic risks. Ask:

• Are your suppliers reviewing and adjusting their procurement strategies?

• Can your maintenance partner provide transparency around cost structures?

• Is your cleaning contractor able to adapt services to meet evolving needs without sacrificing quality?

Looking Ahead

While no one can fully predict how long the current economic pressures will persist, one thing is certain: resilience, flexibility, and a focus on value will be key for property managers and their partners alike.

At Protech Property Solutions, we believe the strength of a property services provider lies in their ability to adapt—and continue to deliver excellence regardless of economic climate. With our local expertise, established supplier relationships, and steadfast commitment to quality, we are ready to support our clients through whatever comes next.

For information on working with us please visit our Partnership page.