The government is launching a review of the private rental market in England which it hopes will improve conditions for both landlords and tenants. Over 2.6m properties are privately rented in the England from 0.5m landlords and the government is keen to assess the impact of changing demographics, student rentals, buy-to-let investors and property quality.

The private rental sector is a vital part of the housing market in the UK yet efforts are needed to ensure tenants are landlords are satisfied.

The government has already introduced measures to protect rental deposits and improve the speed and quality of repairs yet according to the Citizens Advice Bureau, many tenants are still reluctant to demand repairs for fear of being evicted. Likewise many landlords continue to complain about problems with rent being paid and the behaviour of some tenants.

The review will also look at the behaviour of some letting agencies, an issue that continues to concern the National Landlords Association (NLA).

The housing charity Shelter has welcomed the review although says it is long overdue.

The review is expected to be completed by October this year and will be led by Julie Rugg and David Rhodes from York University’s Centre for Housing Policy.