Law firm alleges that ‘rogue landlords’ exploit tenants

The vast majority of landlords won’t recognise the sector from a survey carried out by a law firm which alleges that ‘millions of tenants are living in fear of eviction’.

The firm, Duncan Lewis Solicitors, also says that tenants endure unsafe housing conditions and some are being asked for sexual favours or unpaid labour in exchange for rent.

The Rogue Landlord Report 2025 draws from a nationwide survey of 1,000 tenants to highlight unsafe homes, threats of eviction and illicit demands plaguing the PRS.

It also reveals that 18% of renters faced eviction threats over the past year, while 30% grappled with mould or damp in their homes.

Also, one in seven battled infestations of rodents or insects, and a shocking one in 17 reported landlords demanding sexual favours.

Rogue landlords exploit loopholes

Manjinder Kaur Atwal, the firm’s director of housing 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.”

She added: “Without urgent legislative action, rogue landlords will continue to exploit loopholes, leaving tenants to bear the physical, emotional, and financial consequences.”

Renting brings an emotional toll

The survey also found that one in 11 tenants was coerced into unpaid labour to cover rent.

And 62% of renters are facing rent rises, and 23% have been forced to relocate due to unaffordable costs.

The law firm says tenants are struggling with an emotional toll, with 30% highlighting housing-related stress and anxiety.

The report highlights that 41% of renters paid for repairs themselves when landlords failed to act.

Report is extremely concerning

A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: “These findings are extremely concerning, and some of the very serious activity referenced is illegal and should be reported to the police.

“We are cracking down on rogue landlords who make tenants’ lives a misery, delivering long overdue reform to the private rented sector.

“Our Renters’ Rights Bill will protect renters by banning section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions and giving councils stronger powers to crack down on landlords who break the rules – including criminal prosecution.

“This is alongside tackling the blight of poor-quality homes by extending Awaab’s Law to the private rented sector and introducing a Decent Homes Standard for privately rented homes for the first time.”