The English Housing Survey has just published its report on the rental sector.

It can be seen here and reveals critical trends for landlords, particularly concerning tenant affordability, mobility, and changing demographics:

• Affordability Pressures:
  71% of low-income tenants — and 96% in London — spend over 30% of their income on rent. While arrears remain low, many tenants are financially stretched, making them more vulnerable if living costs rise.

• Higher Tenant Turnover:
  One in five private renters has lived in their current home for less than a year. This mobility means landlords face more frequent voids and re-letting costs.

• Rising Rents:
  Private tenants now face the highest average weekly housing costs (£237 nationally, £368 in London), which could limit their ability to absorb future rent increases.

• Changing Tenant Demographics:
  Households with a non-UK/ROI lead tenant have increased from 16% to 20%, reflecting a more diverse tenant population.

• Neighbourhood Satisfaction Matters:
  Renters in deprived or dense urban areas report lower satisfaction with their neighbourhoods — this can affect retention and overall demand.

These trends underline the importance of balancing rent levels with tenant affordability and focusing on longer-term tenant retention.