Rightmove reveals up to 30 tenants competing per rental in hotspots

Rightmove reveals up to 30 tenants competing per rental in hotspots

Rightmove’s latest analysis shows intense competition for rental properties in Britain’s busiest months, with up to 30 tenants vying for each available home in some areas during July and August 2026.

Rightmove has published findings on tenant demand across Great Britain for the summer months of July and August 2026, highlighting ongoing high competition for rental properties despite a gradual easing compared to recent peak levels. The data reveals that while the average number of enquiries per available rental has decreased from previous years, it remains elevated compared to pre-pandemic times.

Across the country, rental listings attracted an average of 11 enquiries each during the summer period, down from 12 in the same months last year and significantly below the peak of 28 enquiries recorded in July and August 2022. However, this is still above the pre-pandemic average of eight enquiries per property. The analysis also identified specific hotspots where competition remains fierce, with up to 30 prospective tenants competing for each available rental.

Rightmove’s detailed rental competition analysis

Rightmove’s research involved ranking 1,000 locations across Great Britain based on the number of enquiries each available rental listing received during July and August 2026. An enquiry is defined as a prospective tenant contacting a letting agent by phone or email to arrange a viewing.

The data shows that while national average rents remain at record highs, currently averaging £1,580 per calendar month, the pace of rent growth has slowed. This slowdown is attributed to a rebalancing of supply and demand conditions, with improved rental supply giving tenants more choice compared to the pandemic-era peak.

Despite the easing, the intense competition in certain areas underscores the ongoing challenges tenants face in securing rental homes. The fact that some locations still see up to 30 enquiries per property indicates persistent supply constraints and strong demand in key markets.

Context of rental market competition and regulatory environment

The rental market has been under significant pressure for several years due to a combination of factors including housing shortages, increased demand from tenants, and regulatory changes affecting landlords and letting agents. The pandemic period saw record demand and limited supply, driving up rents and competition.

Recent legislative reforms, including the Renters’ Rights Act and changes to tenancy laws, have aimed to improve tenant protections and balance the market. However, these reforms have also introduced new compliance requirements for landlords and agents, potentially affecting the availability and management of rental properties.

In this context, the Rightmove data suggests that while the market is gradually stabilising, landlords in high-demand areas continue to benefit from strong tenant interest. The slowdown in rent growth may reflect both increased supply and the impact of regulatory measures designed to curb excessive rent increases and improve affordability.

Implications for landlords and letting agents in competitive markets

For landlords and letting agents, the persistence of high enquiry levels in certain hotspots means that properties remain highly sought after, allowing for selective tenant screening and potentially shorter void periods. However, the slower pace of rent growth indicates that landlords may face pressure to keep rents competitive to attract tenants.

Letting agents should be prepared to manage high volumes of enquiries efficiently, ensuring timely viewings and clear communication to secure suitable tenants quickly. Landlords must also remain vigilant about compliance with evolving regulations, as tenant demand intensifies scrutiny of property standards and tenancy management.

In areas with extreme competition, landlords might consider the benefits of maintaining high standards of property presentation and responsiveness to tenant needs to stand out. Conversely, landlords in less pressured markets may need to adjust rent levels or offer incentives to attract tenants.

Uncertainties and what landlords should watch next

While the data points to a rebalancing of supply and demand, uncertainties remain around the impact of future regulatory changes and economic factors such as inflation, interest rates, and housing policy. The government’s approach to rental market reform, including any further amendments to tenancy laws or landlord licensing, could influence market dynamics significantly.

Landlords should monitor developments closely, particularly any new guidance on rent setting, possession procedures, or safety obligations. The potential introduction of additional tenant protections or changes to eviction processes may affect how landlords manage tenancies and respond to competition.

Keeping abreast of local market conditions is also crucial, as competition levels vary widely by region and property type. Landlords and agents should regularly review their portfolios and tenancy strategies to adapt to shifting demand patterns and regulatory requirements.

Practical steps landlords should consider now

• Review and update tenancy agreements and compliance documentation in line with current legislation.
• Ensure properties meet all safety and quality standards to attract and retain tenants in competitive areas.
• Maintain clear records of tenant communications and property maintenance to support compliance and dispute resolution.
• Monitor local rental market trends to set competitive rent levels and adjust marketing strategies accordingly.
• Prepare for potential regulatory changes by staying informed through trusted industry sources and membership organisations.

Supporting landlords with compliance and property management

The Landlord Association (TLA) offers practical resources and support to help landlords and letting agents manage compliance amid evolving rental market conditions. TLA membership provides access to up-to-date guidance on tenancy law, safety obligations, and possession procedures, essential for navigating the current competitive environment.

TLA is also developing ORBIT, a new property management and compliance platform currently available in BETA testing. ORBIT aims to assist landlords in organising property records, managing rental documents, and recording key compliance actions. Features in testing include tools for maintaining tenancy documentation and tracking repair and inspection records, which are particularly valuable in managing high-demand rental properties.

Exploring TLA membership and ORBIT BETA access can support landlords in staying organised and compliant as market pressures and regulatory requirements continue to evolve.

Looking ahead, landlords should remain adaptable, balancing competitive rent setting with robust compliance and tenant engagement to succeed in an increasingly discerning rental market.

Sources: Landlord Today