The Economic Thaw Begins
The Bank of England has delivered a well-timed boost to the UK property and construction sectors today by reducing the base rate to 3.75%. This is not just a minor adjustment; it is a clear signal that the economic “winter” is beginning to thaw.
For those of us at the ISSE who spend our days navigating the complexities of the built environment, this move signals a transition toward a significantly more active and stable market in 2026. As the cost of borrowing drops, we expect to see a surge in both property transactions and long-overdue specialist remedial works.
A Shift in Market Sentiment
After a year defined by caution, today’s announcement acts as a vital catalyst for confidence. In the UK, sentiment is often just as powerful as the numbers themselves.
We are already seeing high street lenders preparing to be more competitive in the New Year. For homeowners who have delayed essential damp and timber treatments or structural investigations due to financial uncertainty, this decision helps unlock stalled plans. When confidence returns to the system, the demand for qualified, independent ISSE expertise naturally follows.
The Specialist’s Perspective: Excellence Over “Quick Fixes”
As the market accelerates, our role as the gatekeepers of building health becomes even more critical. In an environment where buyers are eager to move forward, the value of a specialist ISSE report cannot be overstated.
We do not rely on generic tick-box exercises. Our members rely on:
- Advanced diagnostic understanding of how British buildings actually behave.
- Independence from the pressure of sales-driven recommendations.
As volumes increase, the ISSE commitment to high-level engineering standards and evidence-based reporting will remain the industry benchmark.
Market Condition and Impact: December 2025
| Sector | Current Condition | Impact on ISSE Professionals |
| Lending & Refinancing | Base rate at 3.75%. | Surge in instructions for specialist reports as lenders seek technical certainty. |
| Remedial Works | Lower borrowing costs for owners. | Increased demand for independent specifications to ensure work is done correctly the first time. |
| Professional Standards | High pressure on the supply chain. | Our role is to ensure standards aren’t compromised during a busier market. |
| Capacity & Growth | A resilient workforce. | Now is the time for firms to prepare for a significant Q1 surge in technical consultations. |
Looking Ahead
There is genuine reason for optimism. The ISSE has worked hard throughout 2025 to elevate the status of specialist surveyors and engineers, and we enter the new year in a position of strength. Technical proficiency and independent advice are likely to be valued more than ever across the built environment.
Season’s Greetings, I hope everyone finds time to put the ladders away, park the moisture meters, and enjoy a well-earned break with family and friends. ISSE members play a vital role in helping people make informed, safe decisions about their homes. Let’s return in January with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism for the year ahead.
Merry Christmas to all our members, and a happy and prosperous New Year!
