Shocking two-thirds of renters ‘reporting maintenance problems in homes’

Two thirds of private renters experienced a problem with the quality or condition of their property during the past six months, research from the TDS Foundation reveals today.

While 40% of tenants did not have any problems, 60% encountered one or more problems, the report reveals.

TOP FIVE

The five most common problems included leaks or dodgy plumbing (21%), difficulties keeping their home warm (20%), repairs not being carried out (18%), serious problems with damp or mould (16%) and outside doors, walls, roofs or windows being in need of repair (16%).

Of this group, 85% reported these problems to their landlord or letting agent, with over three quarters (78%) saying the issue was either fully or partially addressed.

The minority of tenants who did not report the issues to their landlord or letting agent said this was due to a perceived ineffectiveness of reporting (30%), the hassle involved (27%), fears about not being seen as a “good tenant” (23%) and concerns about potential rent increases (22%).

REPORTED

Dr Jennifer Harris, Head of Policy and Research at TDS Group, says: “Whilst a large proportion of tenants are experiencing problems with the condition of their property, they are being addressed by landlords in a majority of cases when they are reported.

Dr Jennifer Harris, TDS Group

“That said, it is worrying that over one in ten tenants who had problems with their homes did not feel confident reporting it.”

And she adds: “The Government’s plans to reform the rental market, including developing a decent homes standard for private rented housing, need to ensure tenants feel confident to speak out where their homes meet all required standards.

“The TDS Foundation will continue to work to ensure tenants fully understand and make use of their rights when calling out the minority of landlords failing to tackle poor quality housing.”