Older and disabled renters are facing increasing difficulty securing appropriate accommodation in the private rented sector (PRS), with new research from Propertymark highlighting a significant shortage of bungalows across the UK.

The report reveals that nearly 867,000 households headed by individuals aged 55 and over are now renting privately. Since 2010/11, the number of older renters in this category has risen by 70%, reflecting a notable demographic shift in the rental market.

The research also indicates that almost half of private renters aged 65 or above fall within the lowest 20% of household incomes, raising concerns about their ability to afford and access suitable housing.

At the same time, availability of bungalows in the PRS is declining. Propertymark data shows a year-on-year fall of nearly 5%, equating to approximately 1,000 fewer bungalows available to rent. From April 2024 to April 2025, the total number of rental bungalows dropped to 19,161, down from 20,138 in the previous year.

Regional data from April 2025 demonstrates wide variation in availability. The West Midlands listed 110 rental bungalows, Scotland had 66, and Northern Ireland had 35. In contrast, the East of England and South East had 298 and 284 respectively.

The South West, despite being a key destination for retirees, also reported limited stock. Between January and April 2025, Cornwall had just 114 bungalows available for rent, while Nottingham in the East Midlands recorded 164.

In urban areas, the trend was mixed. Some locations, such as Inner London and Manchester, saw small increases in available stock. However, other cities recorded significant declines: Newcastle saw a 27.7% decrease, Cardiff dropped 19.9%, and other areas including Brighton, Sheffield, Glasgow, and Lincoln experienced double-digit reductions.

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, commented: “The concern surrounding the lack of available homes to rent in comparison to growing demand from tenants is long-standing and especially affects renters on a lower income, the older population and those with disabilities.

“We can see that year on year, across the board, there has been a significant downturn in the number of bungalows available to rent, which are crucial in the adaptation for those with disabilities and older renters.

“The private rented sector plays an important role in housing the nation and without a significant increase in the number of homes of all types to rent, rent levels will remain higher and, in turn, put financial pressure on those it is designed to help.”

Emerson also called for government action: “We urgently need the attention of all Governments to ensure planning policy and housing strategies recognise housing needs across the country and older people, whether renting or right-sizing, can access suitable housing.”

The findings underscore growing demand for accessible rental housing and a shortfall in supply that is likely to place further strain on vulnerable groups unless addressed through targeted policy and planning measures.