Average PRS rents have increased in the past year, with the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) arguing this further undermines the argument for rent controls.
The latest ONS statistics show that average private sector rents increased by 3.3% in the year to June 2026. In this time average rents increased to £1,446 (3.4%) in England, £843 (4.9%) in Wales, and £1,012 (1.3%) in Scotland, in the 12 months to June 2026.
However, the rate of rent increases is falling and has been on a sustained downward trend since December 2024.
The ONS has also revealed that early estimates for June 2026 indicate that median monthly pay increased by 4.3%, compared with June 2025.
Reports of rent controls have been widespread following the appointment of Andy Burnham as prime minister.
Though his office has not publicly confirmed these will be introduced, the NRLA is again warning that the current economics in the PRS undermine the argument for rent controls.
“As the reappointed Housing Minister has recognised, the evidence from the UK and overseas is clear: rent controls reduce the supply of homes to rent and ultimately leave tenants worse off,” said Chris Norris, chief policy officer at the NRLA.
“It would further undermine the government’s welcome mission to end rough sleeping as access to the sector became harder for those who most need it.”
