The Modern Slavery Act 2015 requires UK businesses, including property developers and construction finance providers, to identify and mitigate risks of forced labour and human trafficking in their supply chains. Firms with an annual turnover over £36 million must publish an annual slavery and human trafficking statement. However, ethical compliance expectations extend across all tiers of the industry. The Act influences procurement policies, contractor selection, and ESG due diligence, making it increasingly relevant in property development finance and institutional funding decisions in the UK.
For property developers seeking institutional funding, compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015 is increasingly assessed as part of wider governance and risk management reviews. Lenders, investors, and development partners may expect evidence that labour practices, subcontractor oversight, and procurement procedures are subject to appropriate controls, particularly on larger schemes with complex supply chains. Failure to identify or address modern slavery risks can create reputational, legal, and commercial concerns that affect funding relationships, project delivery, and stakeholder confidence. As a result, the Act forms an important element of broader Statutory and Regulatory Compliance obligations, supporting responsible development practices and demonstrating adherence to evolving ESG and corporate governance expectations.
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