Small landlords’ share of market continues to decline
New research from The Deposit Protection Service indicates continued consolidation in the UK landlord market over the past year.
Its latest Private Rented Sector Review, based on a survey of more than 1,000 landlords, shows the proportion owning one or two properties fell from 57% to 50% between October 2024 and October 2025.
Over the same period, the share of landlords with three to five properties increased from 27% to 31%, while those with 11 or more properties rose from 5% to 8%. The proportion owning six to 10 properties remained unchanged at 11%.
More than a third of landlord respondents (36%) said rental income was their main source of income.
A majority of landlord respondents (56%) said rental income was not their primary source of income.
Just 5% of landlord respondents reported operating via limited companies.
Around three in 10 landlord respondents (28%) said they continue to let properties as individuals or sole traders.
Matt Trevett, managing director at The DPS, said: “Taken together, these findings point to a gradual reshaping of the landlord landscape.
“Smaller landlords now account for a shrinking share of the market, while medium and larger portfolios are becoming more prominent.”
“At a time of ongoing economic pressure and regulatory change, the data suggest the sector is continuing to consolidate.”