In a striking revelation, a recent survey conducted by Landbay, the specialist buy-to-let lender, has found that an overwhelming 81% of landlords believe they are unfairly and inaccurately depicted in the mainstream media. The survey asked landlords if they felt the media portrayal of their profession was just, with a staggering 33% strongly disagreeing and another 48% expressing their disagreement.
Landbay highlighted that many landlords argued that the mainstream media fails to acknowledge their crucial role in tackling the UK’s housing crisis. Despite the high demand for rental properties, landlords lamented feeling “demonised” by the media, which often labels them as greedy. One landlord went so far as to express frustration at being cast as a profiteer who takes advantage of tenants.
Landlords contend that the media unfairly blames them for the dearth of available properties and soaring rents, conveniently ignoring the government’s failure to construct sufficient housing over the years. In the Landbay report, another landlord argued that the media should provide a more balanced perspective and shed light on the challenges landlords face with problematic tenants.
Paul Brett, Managing Director of Intermediaries at Landbay, acknowledged the resilience landlords have had to develop due to consistent anti-landlord sentiments and policies from successive governments. He lamented the fact that negative news takes precedence, despite the many positive examples of landlords working in partnership with tenants to provide quality housing.
With rented accommodation playing an increasingly crucial role in the UK’s housing landscape, Brett emphasized the urgent need for quality landlords and encouraged new entrants to the sector, given the persistently high demand. However, he underscored the importance of government support and advocacy for reputable landlords, urging collaboration instead of opposition.
Brett concluded by expressing hope that a more balanced approach in the national news agenda, coupled with government cooperation, could alleviate the mounting pressure faced by honest and hard-working landlords across the nation.