A report by a business campaign group claims Build To Rent is key to helping solve the housing crisis in London.

Who Lives In Build To Rent? Is the name of the report by London First, alongside property industry groups the British Property Federation, UK Apartment Association and Dataloft. 

The data claims that the BTR sector is an affordable option available for singles, couples, sharers and families looking to make a long-term commitment to their living arrangements. 

From those sampled, BTR residents’ incomes are broadly similar to those living in the much larger mainstream buy to let private rented sector, with 27 per cent of BTR residents earning between £26,000 to £38,000. 

The report provides insight from across the 9,994 residents living in 6,267 homes across 20 BTR schemes, and found that two thirds were couples or sharers, compared to 51 per cent in the wider private rental sector.

Just over a third of tenants have a three-year lease, with 95 per cent of BTR schemes offering this type of lease.

“There is sometimes a perception that Build To Rent is not accessible to many tenants, but this report demonstrates that the sector is able to meet the needs of Londoners at whatever stage in life they’re at, including for those with families. BTR developments are not just a quick fix – they are a viable long-term solution for many, and the sector has an important part to play in helping to alleviate London’s housing crisis” says Stephanie Pollitt, programme director for housing at London First.

And James Simondson, assistant director of policy at the British Property Foundation, adds: “This report again shows that Build To Rent is a key solution to the many housing challenges facing London. BTR is delivering an unparalleled renting experience to a diverse range of Londoners – high quality, professionally managed, affordable and tenure-secure homes with access to amenities included.”