In a landmark speech delivered in Manchester, Andy Burnham set out an ambitious vision that could significantly reshape the housing landscape. Phe unveiled plans for what he described as the largest council housebuilding programme since the post-war period—alongside a broader strategy to rebalance power, investment and opportunity across the UK.

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.

A recent landlord prosecution has sent a powerful message across the property industry — and it’s one that every landlord in Birmingham and the West Midlands should take seriously.

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.