The Hidden Cost of Inefficient Buildings
A recent Property Week article has revealed the true scale of inefficiency across the UK’s commercial building stock, drawing on new research by cleantech firm Demand Logic and innovation studio Urban Neuron.
The findings are striking: by improving the operational performance of offices in central London alone, annual economic returns of £1.43 billion could be achieved—while dramatically cutting carbon emissions. When extrapolated globally, the opportunity equates to over £1 trillion in potential economic return, or the carbon-saving equivalent of removing every flight worldwide.
The research analysed more than 400 UK and Irish buildings, exposing consistent inefficiencies—including one London office consuming the electricity of 650 homes. Many issues stemmed from simple control failures and reactive maintenance—problems often fixable within existing operational budgets.
Why This Matters to HORDE
At HORDE, we see operational performance not just as a technical issue but as a responsibility. As a certified B Corp, we’re committed to improving the way buildings impact both people and the planet. Efficiency isn’t only about cost—it’s about reducing carbon, improving wellbeing, and safeguarding long-term asset value.
This aligns perfectly with the challenge outlined by Demand Logic and Urban Neuron: how to turn existing building data into real, measurable action.
How HORDE Helps Bridge the Performance Gap
1. Technical Due Diligence & Performance Reviews
We go beyond condition surveys to understand how buildings actually behave. By analysing M&E systems, controls, and occupancy patterns, we identify quick wins that cut emissions and OPEX simultaneously.
2. Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM)
The research found more than £53 million wasted annually in London alone due to reactive maintenance. HORDE’s tailored PPM strategies move clients from reactive to proactive management—reducing energy waste, improving reliability, and extending asset life.
3. Sustainability & Net Zero Strategy advice
Our sustainability consultancy helps organisations align with ESG and B-Corp principles, creating pathways that link operational data with net-zero targets. We help clients quantify reductions, report progress transparently, and embed sustainability across portfolios.
4. Lifecycle & Cost Planning
By connecting performance data to lifecycle forecasting, we help clients make the business case for sustainable investment—showing where efficiency upgrades deliver long-term financial and environmental returns.
5. Regulatory & Compliance Support
From tightening MEES thresholds to frameworks such as NABERS UK, HORDE supports compliance while enabling continuous improvement in operational performance.
The B-Corp Perspective: Accountability in Action
As a B Corp, HORDE is independently verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. That means we don’t just advise on efficiency—we measure our own impact too.
We believe responsible businesses should lead by example, using data and expertise to reduce waste, lower emissions, and create spaces that enhance wellbeing.
“Operational performance is a direct reflection of purpose. When buildings perform better, everyone benefits—owners, occupiers, and the environment alike.
As a B Corp, we see it as our responsibility to help clients translate data into tangible, positive impact
– creating buildings that work smarter, last longer, and tread lighter.”
Alex Hurn, CEO, HORDE Group
The Bottom Line
The Property Week research confirms what many in the industry already suspect: inefficiency is widespread—but solvable.
With the right data, advice, and commitment to sustainability, the opportunity to transform performance—and impact—is enormous.
At HORDE, we help clients take that step:
turning insight into action and building a better future for people, planet, and property.
Sources
- Property Week: Research exposes inefficiency in commercial buildings’ operational performance (by Jamie Bennett-Ness)
- Demand Logic & Urban Neuron, Building Operational Performance Report 2025
Get in Touch
To learn how HORDE’s B-Corp approach can help optimise your building performance:
📧 enquiries@horde.group
🌍 www.horde.group