Rents rise 3.8% in 12 months to September
Summary
ONS data shows UK private rents continued to rise, increasing 3.8% year on year to September 2026, with stronger growth in England and Wales than in Scotland. The article links the pressure on rents to constrained supply, landlord exits, and anticipated costs associated with forthcoming energy-efficiency requirements.
Why it matters
Rising rents and reduced supply can affect rental valuations, affordability assessments and investment assumptions used by surveyors. The references to the Renters’ Rights Act, Renters Reform Bill and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards also point to a changing compliance and risk environment for the private rented sector.
Key points
- Average UK private rent reached £1,406 per month, up 3.8% over 12 months.
- Annual rent growth was 4.0% in England, 4.1% in Wales and 0.7% in Scotland.
- North West England recorded the highest annual inflation at 5.7%; London and the South East were both 3.5%.
- Commentary attributes rent pressure to landlords exiting the market and tighter supply.
- Future energy-efficiency requirements are cited as a potential additional cost for landlords.
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