Nearly 867,000 households in England’s private rented sector include someone aged 55 or over, yet the supply of suitable homes for this growing demographic is failing to keep pace with demand. A recent report from Propertymark highlights a concerning decline in the availability of accessible properties such as bungalows and retirement homes, even as the population ages and the need for appropriate housing rises.

Supply of suitable accessible homes is not keeping pace

Propertymark’s CEO, Nathan Emerson, emphasises the vital role the private rented sector plays in housing older people. However, he warns that “the supply of suitable and accessible homes is simply not keeping pace with demographic change.” While some regions have seen slight improvements in the availability of bungalows and retirement properties, many major cities and communities are experiencing reductions in supply at a time when the number of older households is rapidly increasing.

Emerson stresses that for many older renters, particularly those with mobility issues or fixed incomes, accessible homes such as bungalows are not a matter of preference but a necessity. Without increased investment and planning policies that address the needs of an ageing population, older renters face shrinking choice, affordability challenges, and limited opportunities to relocate later in life.

Rising demand among older people

The report reveals a steady decline in the number of privately rented bungalows and retirement properties across the UK. In 2024, there were 17,225 such properties available to rent, falling to 17,083 in 2025—a 0.8% decrease. This continues a broader downward trend of 4.2% since 2023, when the total stood at 17,827.

At a local level, some areas have seen sharper reductions. Nottingham’s listings dropped from 538 to 494 properties, Sheffield’s from 202 to 166, and Manchester’s from 173 to 167. Conversely, a few locations bucked the trend, with Brighton’s available properties rising from 513 to 566 and Exeter’s from 417 to 446.

What this means for landlords

For landlords, these trends highlight both challenges and opportunities. The increasing number of older renters in the private sector signals growing demand for accessible and adaptable homes. Landlords who invest in modifying properties to meet the needs of older tenants—such as installing mobility aids or creating single-level living spaces—may find themselves better positioned in a competitive market.

Moreover, with the government urged to support landlords in adapting homes for older tenants, there may be forthcoming incentives or assistance schemes. Being proactive in this area could not only improve tenant satisfaction but also contribute to addressing the wider housing shortage for older people.

Source: Based on reporting from Propertymark

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