News from 14 May 2026
Average rental arrears reached £2,281 in the first quarter of 2026 in figures from Reposit, reported by Property Industry Eye. Annual growth had slowed to around 2%, following much larger rises in the previous two years.
What the latest arrears figures show
According to the report, average arrears rose to £2,281 during the first quarter of 2026. Reposit said the annual increase was around 2%, which is much slower than the rises seen in the preceding years. The same report said arrears had increased by 27% between Q1 2023 and Q1 2024, followed by a further 23% rise the following year.
That combination matters. A record average arrears figure points to continued financial strain, but the slower growth rate suggests the market may be moving into a more stable phase rather than another sharp deterioration.
The report also noted wider buy-to-let data from UK Finance, which showed the number of buy-to-let mortgages in arrears had fallen quarter-on-quarter by the end of Q4 2025. The figures show continued pressure, with slower growth in some measures.
If a payment is late
If rent is late, start with a calm message asking what has happened. Keep a clear record of payments and anything agreed. Get advice before taking formal action over a tenancy.
