A lack of accessible housing is holding back older renters and those with disabilities, according to new research by Propertymark.
The group’s analysis shows only 3,300 new bungalows were built in 2022 while over three million people over the age of 65 now live in rented accommodation.
Propertymark is now arguing that accessible and step-free housing is a fairness issue, with people living in PRS often having fewer choices than those in social housing.
The group added that disabled tenants, in particular, face longer waits for suitable homes and often struggle to get adjustments made in their current accommodation.
Propertymark research also shows that older people are more likely to live in hard-to-heat homes, making them vulnerable to fuel poverty and poor health outcomes.
Using these findings, Propertymark is continuing to campaign for greater support from the government on this issue and to stimulate delivery of more accessible homes.
“As people live longer and more of us rent in later life, the housing system must adapt,” claimed Propertymark.
“We’ve called for better incentives for developers to build accessible homes and more support to help older renters downsize into properties that suit their changing needs.”
