News

A major new study commissioned by Duncan Lewis Solicitors has exposed the shocking extent of exploitation and poor living conditions faced by renters across the UK.

The Rogue Landlord Report 2025, based on nationwide research, reveals that millions of tenants are living in fear of eviction, enduring unsafe housing conditions, and in some cases, being asked for sexual favours or unpaid labour in exchange for rent.

The findings come just weeks after the resignation of the homelessness minister over her treatment of her own tenants, and with the Renters’ Rights Bill due to return to Parliament next month, the research highlights the urgent need for systemic change.

“Too many tenants are suffering in silence”

Manjinder Kaur Atwal, Director of Housing at Duncan Lewis Solicitors and author of the report, said:

“This research exposes the grim reality of Britain’s broken rental system. Too many tenants are suffering in silence - harassed, exploited, and even asked for sexual favours or unpaid work simply to keep a roof over their heads.

The law is there to protect people, and support is available, but while the Renters’ Rights Bill promises change, ongoing delays mean many remain vulnerable right now. Without urgent legislative action, rogue landlords will continue to exploit loopholes, leaving tenants to bear the physical, emotional, and financial consequences.”

The report also highlights a striking imbalance of power between tenants and landlords. Many renters are reluctant to speak out for fear of retaliation—whether through sudden rent hikes, “no-fault” evictions, or even harassment. Legal protections exist, but access to justice remains patchy, with overstretched housing courts and limited awareness of tenant rights creating further barriers.

At the same time, the crisis is deepening against the backdrop of a wider affordability emergency. With average rents hitting record highs in many cities, tenants are being forced into overcrowded or substandard homes simply because safer, more secure housing is out of reach. Campaigners argue that without a strong national landlord register and stricter enforcement of existing laws, exploitation will continue unchecked.

Key Findings From the Report

The survey of 1,000 renters paints a stark picture of life in Britain’s broken rental system:

• 18% of tenants have been threatened with eviction in the past year.
• 30% reported living with mould or damp.
• 1 in 7 battled pests such as rodents or insects.
• 1 in 17 said their landlord requested sexual favours.
• 1 in 11 were asked to carry out unpaid work in lieu of rent.
• 41% paid for repairs themselves after landlords or agents failed to act.

Beyond poor living conditions and unlawful demands, the financial and emotional impact is severe:

• 62% of renters saw their rent increase in the past 12 months.
• 23% were forced to move because they could no longer afford their home.
• 30% reported stress and anxiety linked directly to their housing situation.

Government Response:

A government spokesperson, responding to the findings of the Rogue Landlord Report 2025, told Good Morning Britain:

“These findings are extremely concerning and some of the very serious activity references are illegal and should be reported to the police. Our Renters’ rights bill will protect renters by banning Section 21 no fault evictions and giving council stronger powers to crack down on landlords who break the rules including criminal prosecution.”

This response underscores the severity of the issues highlighted in the report and the need for tenants to know their rights. While legislative changes are promised, renters currently facing exploitation or unsafe housing conditions are advised to seek expert legal guidance.

Too many tenants feel powerless when faced with unfair treatment, unsafe housing, or unlawful eviction. You do not have to face these challenges alone. Our expert solicitors are here to protect your rights, fight rogue landlords, and secure safe, fair housing for you and your family.

If you are facing housing problems or need urgent legal advice, our expert solicitors can help. Call us today on 0333 772 0409.

Duncan Lewis Housing Team

The Duncan Lewis Housing team is ranked as a Top Tier practice The Legal 500 UK for its extensive experience in all areas of social housing and property litigation. Offering both publicly funded (legal aid) and privately funded legal services nationwide, our experts can guide clients in any matter or issues arising with local housing authorities, housing applications, tenants, landlords, ownership and repairs. With a niche expertise in unlawful eviction, disrepair and homelessness matters the team offers representation in all proceedings including reviews, appeals and judicial review proceedings.

About the Author

Manjinder Kaur Atwal is ranked by the Chambers & Partners for her expertise across a wide range of social housing matters, including interim relief and homelessness applications. She heads a Housing Team ranked Tier 1 by The Legal 500 for its "excellent knowledge of the law" and "extensive experience". The department is recognised as a market-leader in all areas of social housing and property litigation including disrepair, unlawful evictions, homelessness, possession disputes, and complex judicial review matters.

Contact Manjinder via email at ManjinderA@duncanlewis.com, or by telephone at 02031141269.