In response to Guardian newspaper reports that the Chancellor is considering imposing a one-year rent freeze on private sector homes, the leader of the NRLA said it would be a ‘disaster’ for landlord and investor confidence.

Chief executive, Ben Beadle, said: “Any hope of growing the market– or even retaining the homes that millions of families rely on, would be lost.

“There is no evidence to suggest that it would make rents more affordable. In fact, the impact on supply would inevitably drive new rents still higher.

“Such a move would run completely counter to good economic sense and the Government’s own prior decision to rule out such measures.

“At a time when demand for rental housing continues to significantly outweigh supply, we agree with the Housing Minister’s view that any form of rent controls would make life more difficult for renters.

“Even if these reports prove to be speculation, it is reckless for this kind of uncertainty to be created in the same week that major reforms, already causing concern among landlords, come into force.

“For many, it may be enough to conclude that this is the moment to exit the private rented sector for good.”