Historic Jerram Falkus Construction Enters Administration: What London Landlords Must Do Now

A Historic Firm in Administration: Why It Matters to Landlords

Jerram Falkus Construction, a prominent player in London's property sector for over 140 years, has entered administration. Despite reporting a pre-tax loss in 2023 followed by a slight profit in 2024, the firm now faces operational uncertainty, with its online presence currently offline. Accounts for 2025 are due by the end of April 2026, which may provide further clarity on the financial trajectory.

For landlords and letting agents, this development signals caution. Construction companies’ administration can disrupt ongoing developments, scheduled maintenance, or refurbishment contracts—key elements affecting property availability, tenant satisfaction, and compliance.

Where Landlords Should Focus Their Attention

1. Assess Current Projects and Maintenance Contracts

   • Identify any ongoing or planned projects involving Jerram Falkus Construction.
   • Evaluate the risk of delays or incomplete works that could affect your properties’ readiness or compliance.
   • For HMOs or portfolios under refurbishment or compliance upgrades, incomplete works may jeopardise licence renewals or safety certifications.

2. Review Contractual Exposure

   • Consult the contracts with Jerram Falkus for clauses on insolvency, delays, and remedies.
   • Engage legal counsel promptly to understand your rights, obligations, and options.
   • Single-unit landlords may have simpler arrangements, but portfolio landlords and agents managing multiple units should prioritise contract reviews.

3. Consider Financial and Operational Implications

   • Budget for potential cost increases if you need to engage alternative contractors urgently.
   • Prepare for possible tenant communication regarding delays, particularly where refurbishments or urgent repairs are implicated.
   • Accidental landlords should check if ongoing property works are impacted to avoid unexpected compliance breaches.

Practical Next Steps for Landlords and Agents

• Verify the Status of Developments: Immediately contact project managers or contractors associated with Jerram Falkus to confirm the current situation and any expected impacts.
• Communicate Transparently with Tenants: Where delays or changes are anticipated, clear communication will help manage expectations and maintain good tenant relations.
• Plan Contingencies: Identify reliable alternative contractors for urgent works or completions to avoid prolonged property downtime.
• Monitor Financial Updates: Await and analyse the firm’s 2025 accounts due by April 2026 to better understand the financial position and potential outcomes.

Tailoring Responses to Landlord Profiles

• Single-Unit Landlords: Prioritise checking any maintenance or refurbishment contracts and arrange alternative providers if needed.
• HMO Operators: Given tighter regulatory requirements, ensure any compliance-related works are completed on schedule; delays could impact licences.
• Portfolio Landlords and Property Teams: Implement a review process for all contracts with Jerram Falkus, engage legal and financial advisors for risk assessment, and update project timelines.
• Accidental Landlords: Review any maintenance arrangements; unexpected delays may lead to compliance risks that could affect tenancy agreements.

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our experienced team can conduct a comprehensive portfolio and contract review to identify exposure to Jerram Falkus Construction’s administration. We offer compliance audits to ensure your properties meet regulatory requirements despite potential project delays, and we can assist in developing contingency plans including sourcing reputable contractors. Additionally, our pricing strategy experts can help adjust rental levels if refurbishment schedules are impacted.

Compliance Disclaimer

This article provides general information and is not a substitute for legal or financial advice. Landlords should consult qualified professionals before making decisions impacting contracts or compliance.