The UK’s rental market is spiralling into crisis, with 88% of landlords losing faith in the sector—rising to a staggering 90% in London, according to SpareRoom. This growing despair has triggered an exodus: 34% of landlords plan to abandon the market entirely, slashing rental supply and pushing prices higher for tenants.
Even more concerning, 42% of London landlords are preparing to exit by 2025. Many blame the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, particularly the abolition of Section 21, which removes their ability to evict tenants without cause. Add rising capital gains tax and shrinking profits, and landlords see little reason to stay.
Stress is mounting—51% say being a landlord has harmed their health in the last year. With no incentives and increasing government control, many believe investing in property is no longer worth the effort.
Matt Hutchinson, Director of SpareRoom, warns: “Nearly half of landlords own just one property, often their life savings. If they leave, renters will suffer. Supply is already tight—this will make things worse.”
Unless the government introduces landlord-friendly policies, the UK could face a rental disaster. Will tenants or landlords be left standing when the dust settles?
