New data shows thousands made homeless as landlords sell up
The NRLA is highlighting government data showing 6,700 households were made homeless in the second quarter of this year.
New government data confirms property sector fears that thousands of tenants are being made homeless as private landlords sell up.
And it is clear that property investors being put off the buy-to-let market in large numbers is the single biggest reason for homelessness in the private rented sector.
The revealing figures come as speculation about potential tax hikes in next month’s Budget risk making the rental supply crisis much worse.
Three times higher
In the second quarter of this year, 6,700 households in England qualified for help from their council after their landlord decided to sell.
This figure is three times higher than the next most common reason for the end of the tenancy.
The NRLA is highlighting the shocking statistics, and warning ministers they need to wake up to what is happening in the PRS.
And the message comes as the Renters’ Rights Bill is poised to become law soon.
Tax grabs
Just last week, the NRLA joined forces with leading economist Paul Johnson to advise against short term tax grabs.
The follows rumours that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reported to be considering raising tax from the PRS, including making landlords pay National Insurance.
Crisis
Ben Beadle, CEO at the NRLA, says: “Every landlord who decides to sell a property leaves renters facing uncertainty about where they will next call home.
“Renters needs responsible landlords to stay in the market for the long term, providing the decent quality homes that the vast majority already do,” he says.
“The Chancellor must recognise this basic fact and avoid tax hikes which would serve only to exacerbate the housing crisis for millions of renters across the country.”
