The number of people living in the private rented sector is rising. The 2011 census, published by the Office for National Statistics, shows the number of private renters in England and Wales has jumped from 1.9 million in 2001 to 3.6 million in 2011 – an increase of 88 per cent.

Furthermore, this figure is likely to increase over the next few years, as a result of both policy and socio-economic trends: the current position of the housing and mortgage market is militating towards increased demand for rented housing. The PRS is therefore an important aspect of the housing market, and concerns a significant, and growing section of the population.

Working in partnership with the Electrical Safety Council, the LGiU set about researching local authority relationships with the private rented sector (PRS).  The project explored the regulation of the PRS by local authorities, and considered drivers for change, current and future models of practice, and the benefits of innovation in this area.

For more information about this project please contact Lauren Lucas.