A recent study revealed that a significant number of young individuals in the UK experience feelings of fear and being overwhelmed when they embark on their first rental journeys. The research, known as the ‘Understanding Renters in 2025 report,’ focused on young professionals and students who rent privately in the UK, primarily between the ages of 16 and 30. Alarmingly, 85% of those under 30 expressed a lack of adequate financial education from their schooling, leading one in three to seek advice from family members.
The study also highlighted a lack of awareness among respondents regarding depositless rental schemes, with only 32% being familiar with such programs. Additionally, half of the participants were unaware of deposit protection schemes. Among individuals aged 16 to 30 seeking rental accommodations, emotions ranged from feeling overwhelmed (26%) and uncertain (20%) to anxious (19%) and scared (8%).
According to Dani Smith from Housing Hand, the organization behind the research, young renters should approach their first home rental with excitement. Nevertheless, a lack of knowledge undermines their confidence, affecting their rental experience negatively from the beginning. The survey also revealed that renters under 30 lack understanding of how to handle rent-related difficulties.
Nearly two-thirds of respondents admitted they would not know what to do if they faced challenges paying their rent, with the majority (84%) stating they would turn to their parents for assistance in such scenarios. Raphael Tindale, a 23-year-old student from London, acknowledged the challenges young people encounter when renting properties. Tindale emphasized the importance of credit scores and how a negative score could impact future endeavors, especially in terms of financial obligations post-education.
The Renters’ Rights Act, set to be enforced from May 1, 2026, aims to provide 11 million renters with enhanced rights, improved protections, and increased security in their residences, as per the Ministry of Housing. Ms. Smith expressed optimism about the Act’s potential to address various rental sector issues, including knowledge gaps among tenants. She emphasized the importance of educating young renters about their rights in different rental scenarios, pledging to support them in navigating the rental landscape confidently.
Housing Hand, a rent guarantor and provider of support services to renters, plays a crucial role in ensuring thousands of tenancies receive guaranteed rent annually. Collaborating with over 4,000 partners, the organization has assisted 100,000 students and professionals, covering nearly £800 million in rent payments.
