A recent study revealed that a significant number of young individuals in the UK experience feelings of fear and being overwhelmed when they rent a property for the first time. The research, titled ‘Understanding Renters in 2025 report,’ focused on working professionals and students who are renting privately in the UK, predominantly aged between 16 and 30. Of concern is that 85% of those under 30 believe they lacked adequate financial education in school, leading one in three to seek guidance from family members.
The survey indicated that only 32% were familiar with depositless rental options, and half were unaware of deposit protection schemes. Among those aged 16 to 30 searching for rental accommodations, emotions varied 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 people should approach the prospect of renting their first home with excitement, yet a lack of knowledge diminishes their confidence and impacts their experience negatively. Moreover, renters under 30 lack information on how to handle rent-related challenges, with nearly two-thirds admitting uncertainty about what to do if they face difficulties in paying rent, with a vast majority (84%) indicating they would seek parental assistance in such circumstances.
Raphael Tindale, a 23-year-old student from London, highlighted the challenges young people face in renting properties, emphasizing the financial burdens and complexities involved. He expressed the common sentiment among young individuals considering moving back in with family due to the high costs of renting in urban areas like London. Tindale also pointed out the growing awareness of credit scores’ significance and the potential complications of a negative score on future financial matters.
The Renters’ Rights Act, set to take effect from May 1, 2026, aims to enhance the rights and protections of renters, providing better security in their rented accommodations, as stated by the Ministry of Housing. Housing Hand, a rent guarantor and support service provider for renters, emphasizes its commitment to assisting tenants, especially young renters, in understanding their rights under the new legislation. The organization has a track record of supporting thousands of tenancies annually, benefiting over 100,000 students and professionals and covering nearly £800 million in rent.
In conclusion, the Renters’ Rights Act is seen as a significant opportunity to address various issues in the rental sector, including knowledge gaps among tenants, with Housing Hand poised to guide young renters in navigating the rental landscape confidently.