HomeLet: Rental prices up 2.9% annually

UK rental prices have risen by 2.9% year-on-year, according to the HomeLet rental index figures for November.

In monitory terms, this has now increased the average rental price to £947 per month in the UK.

However, average rental prices in London have continued to fall, dropping by 4.4% in the year to November 2020.

Rents drop in November as lockdown slows UK lettings market

The average cost to rent a property in London is now £1,576, however, this is still 90% higher than the rest of the UK, when excluding London, which is £828 per month.

The decline in average rental prices in London represents the greatest fall in average rents on a regional basis.

Northern Ireland noted the second largest decrease, with average rental prices falling by 3.1% year-on-year.

Furthermore, nine of the 12 regions monitored by HomeLet showed an annual increase in rental values between November 2019 and November 2020.

The South West saw the greatest increase in average rents, up 8.6%.

Andy Halstead, chief executive of HomeLet & Let Alliance, said: “Outside of the capital we’re seeing UK rents rise at the highest rate we’ve ever reported, yet in contrast rents in London are now decreasing at the highest rates that we’ve ever reported.

“This is a continuation of a theme that started back when the country exited the first national lockdown, with declines in central London boroughs being the most pronounced.

“Whilst the trend is being driven by the increase in people working from home and tenants looking for properties with extra space, both inside and outside the property, we may also be seeing the continued impact of Brexit on Central London.

“Alongside the increase in rental values outside the capital, we’ll continue to see confidence grow in property investment in areas such as the North West.

“We’d also expect that demand for property in less built up areas, which are commutable to urban centres, will continue to increase across the country.

“Whilst the increases in rental values, coupled with the appreciation in property values, continues to make the private rented sector an attractive investment opportunity, there are still risks, particularly in the wake of the ongoing pandemic and the forecasted economic shock.

“Throughout the year many tenants have be impacted emotionally and financially by the pandemic, and in some cases, that’s effected their ability to meet their rental commitments.

“It’s exceptionally difficult for all parties involved when this happens, but landlords can access ‘rent protection services’ through professional letting agents, which ensure the rights of the tenants’ are protected, whilst also covering any missed rental payments for the landlord.

“Whilst 2020 has been a challenge, the letting industries response to the COVID-19 pandemic just reiterates the strength and professionalism of the private rented sector.

“All too often the vital role that letting agents play in the UK housing market is understated, especially when it comes to the consideration of legislation that impacts the sector, which is something that needs to change going forwards.”