Predictions of landlords fleeing the rental market have failed to come true – at least for now – according to one of the country’s biggest lettings agencies.
Benham and Reeves says the private rental sector remains “robust” despite the looming Renters’ Rights Bill, which will scrap Section 21 “no-fault” evictions and bring in stricter tenancy rules.
Since the Bill was unveiled in September 2024, rents across England have jumped by 23.5%. But far from shrinking, rental stock has actually grown in most regions, giving tenants more choice after years of fierce competition for homes.
‘The collapse hasn’t happened’
Marc von Grundherr, director of Benham and Reeves, said talk of a landlord exodus has so far proven wide of the mark.
“There has been no collapse in rental supply – quite the opposite,” he said. “Stock has increased almost everywhere since the Bill was introduced. That’s good news for tenants who have had it tough in recent years.”
Von Grundherr revealed he had even expanded his own buy-to-let portfolio, citing strong yields and softer property prices. But he warned the “real test” will come once the new rules are in force.
Where rental stock is booming
The biggest surge has been in Bristol, where listings are up a staggering 79.1%. West Yorkshire (72.9%) and Tyne and Wear (60%) also saw huge increases.
East Sussex (50.5%) and Northumberland (41.4%) weren’t far behind – while even London, often a bellwether for the wider market, posted an 11% rise.
Only a handful of areas bucked the trend, including Herefordshire (-22.5%), Gloucestershire (-16.4%) and the Isle of Wight (-11.1%).
For now, tenants may breathe a little easier. But whether landlords stick around after the Bill becomes law is a question that still hangs over the market.