A charity claims 18% of what it calls “older tenants” feel uncomfortable raising concerns with their landlords. 

Independent Age claims older tenants report that fear of eviction or rent increases prevents them from speaking up.

However, the charity has commissioned research which apparently shows that 87% of landlords believe rules should be in place to ensure rented homes are free from damp and mould.

Independent Age’s data also shows that: 

• 97% of landlords agree that rules should be in place to ensure private rented homes are free from hazards;

• More than four in every five landlords (81%) agree that rules should be in place to ensure homes are adequately insulated and have working central heating. 

The charity goes on to say that older renters have shared how they feel regarding issues with their accommodation, citing feelings of “living in fear of causing your landlord to get fed up with you.”

Joanna Elson, Chief Executive at Independent Age, says: “With one in four older renters living in a non-decent home, it is clear that urgent action is required to improve living standards for older renters who are scared to ’rock the boat’ with their landlords. 

“There is support from both landlords and tenants for stronger rules, which will be especially important for older renters who face intolerable pressures on their physical and mental health from living in a home in poor condition. 

“The Renters’ Rights Bill – while not the only action that is needed – provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to re-set the relationship between landlords and older renters so that it is more balanced. 

“We are calling on the UK Government to act with urgency to support older private renters, and ensure landlords are providing the safe homes they so desperately need.”