Figures show that rent arrears are 20 per cent higher in Wales than England over the first half of 2021

New research published by the National Residential Landlords Association highlights the rent arrears crisis which affected the Welsh private rented sector throughout the first half of 2021.

The research findings, which are based on extensive surveys of English and Welsh landlords conducted by research consultancy BVA/BDRC in the first two quarters of 2021, suggests that a significant number of Welsh landlords experienced issues relating to rent arrears over the course of the previous year.

The research also reveals that landlords in Wales experienced a significantly higher incidence of rent arrears than their counterparts in England in the first six months of 2021.

In the first half of 2021 some 42 per cent of those with property in Wales reported that they have been impacted by issues relating to rent arrears in the past 12 months compared to only 35 per cent of those with property in England. 

However, Q2 figures also show a growing optimism on the part of Welsh landlords, with the sector experiencing the highest perceived level of tenant demand across all regions surveyed in Q2 2021. 

More than half of respondents confirmed that they have seen this trend over the course of the past quarter.

Chris Norris, Policy Director for the National Residential Landlords Association says: “It is troubling that rent arrears appear to be a more significant issue for households in Wales, despite the recent announcement of the Tenancy Hardship Grant.

“These figures illustrate that the scheme must be implemented as quickly and effectively as possible to prevent Wales’ rent debt crisis from worsening and threatening homes.

“We urge Wales’ private landlords to make their tenants aware of the grant and call on the Welsh Government to inform all stakeholders across the private rented sector of the fact this financial assistance measure is now available.”