Operational Cost Benchmarking for a Rental Operator

We worked with a London based Rental Living operator to deliver a portfolio level operational cost benchmarking exercise across a high specification residential portfolio.  

As the schemes matured, the client recognised that operational costs across the portfolio were higher than anticipated. Given the quality and specification of the buildings, this was not unexpected. However, there was a clear need to understand whether these costs were proportionate, aligned with the market, and sustainable over the long term. The priority was not cost cutting for its own sake but gaining clarity around what was driving spend and where efficiencies could be achieved without compromising service quality or resident experience. 

We carried out a detailed benchmarking exercise, comparing each asset against relevant Rental Living schemes across the London market. This ensured costs were assessed in the right context, recognising that high specification assets require a different operational approach to more standardised buildings. Our focus was on providing a realistic and balanced view of performance, grounded in market evidence. 

Following the benchmarking phase, we produced an in-depth operational cost review report, breaking budgets down on a line-by-line basis. Each cost was assessed against prevailing market rates, allowing areas of variance to be clearly identified and understood. The review considered staffing structures, procurement strategies, and management approaches, providing a transparent and practical picture of how each asset was operating. 

From this analysis, we developed a series of asset specific recommendations designed to improve operational efficiency where appropriate. These focused on supporting workforce planning and role alignment , reviewing procurement approaches, and considering alternative management strategies, always with the aim of maintaining the standards expected within a high-quality Rental Living environment.  

The outcome was a clear, evidence-based understanding of operational costs across the portfolio. The insight supported more confident decision making and provided a framework for aligning operational spend with both market expectations and long-term asset performance. 

By combining detailed market benchmarking with a collaborative and solutions focused approach, we supported the client in gaining clarity over operational costs and strengthening the long-term sustainability of their Rental Living portfolio.