The rental market is stretched to breaking point, with a lack of stock, tax hikes and increased competition for places.
Government figures show that 25% of households renting privately are in receipt of housing benefits, which reduces supply for private renters who are struggling to save and pay rent.
Landlords are also leaving the market with the number selling up rising by nearly 13% in four months, Sky News has learned.
Sean Gillespie, a landlord in Hull, shares his views on the current crisis.