The UK Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) market entered 2026 with renewed momentum. As buyers competed for high‑conviction opportunities, deal scrutiny has been intensifying, and property due diligence has become a critical factor in protecting value.
In M&A, attention naturally centres on financial performance, tax structuring and legals.
Yet, according to Nicola Mottershaw, Head of Occupier Advisory at Vail Williams, one critical area continues to be underestimated – that of commercial property due diligence :
“In our experience, real estate is frequently reviewed late in the transaction process. By that stage, pricing is largely agreed, funding is structured and commercial leverage is reduced. If material property risks emerge at this point, options are constrained and the consequences can be significant.”
Why property due diligence matters in M&A
Real estate, even in asset‑light businesses, underpins operations and can influence:
- Business value
- CapEx forecasts
- ESG obligations
- Integration timelines
- Property exit strategy
Nicola explains: “Failing to carry out proper property due diligence as a seller can lead to costly delays and negatively impact buyer confidence or even derail a transaction. Meanwhile, as a purchaser, lack of knowledge about the details surrounding property assets in a business transaction, can create significant business risk and/or exposure to unquantified future costs.”
