Almost three-quarters (74%) of self-managing portfolio landlords have reported that managing their properties has become more difficult over the past three years. More than half (57%) also stated that recent regulatory changes have led them to reconsider continuing to manage properties themselves.
These findings emerge as landlords adapt to the Renters’ Rights Act and anticipate further regulatory requirements. Research commissioned by Rushbrook indicates that compliance and legislation now cause the most stress for landlords, with 41% identifying it as their biggest pressure. This places it ahead of maintenance and repairs (20%), changes between tenancies (11%), and tenant communication (10%).
The survey, conducted on 8 September 2026, involved 525 self-managing landlords. It found that 68% of landlords spend at least 31 hours a month managing their rental properties, with an additional 17% spending between 21 and 30 hours. Maintenance and repairs were identified by 52% of landlords as the most time-consuming aspect of portfolio management.
Roma Sharma, managing director of Rushbrook, noted that the legislative landscape has become considerably more demanding, with the Renters’ Rights Act increasing the focus on compliance. She added that for many landlords, regulation is not just stressful but is prompting a re-evaluation of self-management.