13 million people in the UK rent from a private landlord - that's 1 in every 5 of us.

We all know people who rent privately – maybe that includes you, too. But what do you really know about the renting system in the UK? Here's some interesting facts that might surprise you. 

🏘️🏠 In 2018, five million households in the UK rented from a private landlord – that's more than twice the number from 2000. This is equivalent to 13 million people, or 20% of the population. In London that figure is 29%. 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 One in four families (23%) live in a private rented home and 35% of private renters live with children. 

👵🧑🧔🧕👩‍🦱 While 46% of under-35s in England rent from private landlords, 58% of private renter households are headed by someone older than 35. 

💷 The rent on the typical two-bedroom home in England is £700 per month. In London it is £1450. The average couple in a private tenancy pays 41% of their income on rent, compared to 18% for home owners and 30% for social tenants.

🔑 Most private renters in England are on "assured shorthold" tenancies, which can be ended by the landlord without needing a reason and with only two months' notice. 10% of people who faced homelessness in 2018-19 were evicted because their landlord wanted to sell, re-let the property or avoid making repairs.

🏚️ 619,000 private rented homes in England - 13% - are estimated to fail safety standards. 23% are considered "non-decent", which means that it might be technically safe but have disrepair or poor heating. In comparison, 5% of social rented homes are unsafe and 12% "non-decent".

We're fighting to change these stats, so that the 13 million renters in the UK can have a safe, secure and fair deal. Take a look at our campaigns and take action with us today.

Sources: English Housing Survey, Office for National Statistics, Valuation Office Agency, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.