The UK housing market continued to shift in favour of buyers throughout May, as transaction levels softened slightly and supply continued to outweigh demand in many areas. While headlines may focus on small percentage changes, the underlying story is far more significant.

The rental market remains active in May 2026, but conditions are changing. Demand is still strong, rent growth has eased, and tenant expectations are rising. Here is what landlords should be thinking about now.

The Bank of England has once again opted to hold its base interest rate at 3.75%, marking the fourth consecutive pause in monetary policy. While widely expected, this latest decision carries significant implications for homeowners, landlords, buyers and sellers across the UK property market.

Rental growth has eased, but tenants are still searching carefully and landlords need to stay on top of pricing, compliance and property standards as the summer moving season continues.