Just 5% of private renters describe their landlord as exploitative, with tenants far more likely to regard them as reasonable, approachable and fair, new research reveals.
Yorkshire Building Society’s study of 4,000 UK adults finds 40% of private renters describe their landlord as reasonable and the same proportion say they are approachable.
More than a third (36%) describe their landlord as fair, while 29% consider them responsive.
Negative descriptions are considerably less common, with 9% regarding their landlord as negligent, 8% unresponsive and 7% unreasonable.
TENANT EXPERIENCE
The findings, published to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the first buy-to-let mortgage, form part of Yorkshire Building Society’s No Way Home? Restoring Britain’s Housing Ladder report.
The research also finds broader recognition of the role played by the private rented sector, with 60% of those surveyed agreeing private landlords are vital because they provide housing choice.
Almost three-quarters (72%) agree renting provides flexibility for people who do not want to buy a home.
Tom Simpson, Managing Director of Homes at Yorkshire Building Society, says: “Landlords are often portrayed negatively in public debate, yet our findings show a very different picture among those with direct experience of renting.
“The vast majority of landlords provide homes that tenants rely on every day, and most are viewed positively by the people living in their properties.
“While standards must always be maintained and poor practices challenged, it’s important that their contribution is recognised.”
LANDLORD SUPPLY
The findings come as separate Accord Mortgages research among mortgage brokers points to continuing concerns about landlords leaving the private rented sector.
More than half (56%) of brokers say landlord clients are actively reducing the size of their portfolios, while 53% report landlords leaving the sector altogether.
Simpson adds: “The conversation around housing should be balanced and evidence-based. Our research suggests that while perceptions of landlords can often be shaped by wider narratives, the lived experience of many renters is much more positive.
“As policymakers consider the future of the private rental sector, it’s vital to recognise the role responsible landlords play in helping to meet the UK’s housing need.”
