In 2024/25, 143,710 households in England secured new accommodation, with just over half placed in housing expected to last at least six months. A large share of these households moved into the private rented sector, reflecting a continued shift away from social housing as councils worked to prevent homelessness.
Homelessness prevention duties end when local authorities secure accommodation that enables households to avoid becoming homeless. New analysis of government data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government by Emoov shows councils relying more heavily on private landlords to meet this obligation.
The trend is visible in rehousing figures across the past five years. In 2024/25, local authorities rehoused 30,240 people through the private rented sector, the highest total recorded during the period. This marked an increase from 29,060 in 2023/24 and 27,340 in 2022/23.
Self-contained homes continued to account for most placements. Councils rehoused 26,120 people in self-contained private accommodation in 2024/25, compared with 25,210 the previous year and 22,960 in 2021/22. Emoov calculated that this represents a 13.76% increase since 2021/22, underlining the growing dependence on private landlords while the supply of social housing remained constrained.
Use of houses in multiple occupation also rose. Authorities placed 3,590 people in HMOs in 2024/25, up from 3,200 in 2023/24 and 2,570 in 2022/23. By contrast, lodging arrangements not involving family or friends declined to 530 placements in 2024/25, down from 650 a year earlier and 700 in 2020/21.
Across the five-year period, rehousing through the private rented sector developed as follows:
2020/21: 28,590 people rehoused
2021/22: 26,470
2022/23: 27,340
2023/24: 29,060
2024/25: 30,240
Self-contained accommodation remained the dominant option in every year, while HMOs consistently formed the second-largest category.
Nick Neale, property expert at Emoov, sets out practical steps tenants can take to avoid temporary homelessness.
Speak to your landlord as early as possible
If you’re struggling with rent or worried about losing your home, the most important step is to communicate early. Many landlords would prefer to work with tenants to find a solution, such as agreeing on a payment plan or allowing extra time, rather than seeing a tenancy break down completely.
Contact your local council for support
Local authorities have a legal duty to help households at risk of homelessness. Reaching out as soon as possible gives councils more time to help secure accommodation and offer financial or practical support.
Check what financial help is available
Many tenants aren’t aware they may qualify for housing support through benefits or discretionary housing payments. These can often provide short-term relief and help tenants remain in their current property.
Keep important tenancy and ID documents safe
Having paperwork ready, such as tenancy agreements, proof of income, and identification, can speed up support from councils, letting agents, and landlords.
Stay open to different housing options
While tenants naturally want long-term and self-contained housing, being flexible about temporary or shared accommodation can provide a safe and stable stepping stone while more permanent housing is arranged.
Seek advice from housing organisations
There are several support organisations that offer free advice to tenants facing housing difficulties. Getting professional guidance early can help tenants understand their rights and options.
Avoid leaving your home without advice
Tenants should always speak to their landlord or local authority before leaving a property, as leaving too soon can sometimes limit the support available.
“The private rented sector is continuing to play a vital role in supporting households at risk of homelessness across England," explained Nick Neale. "For many local authorities, working with responsible landlords provides an essential and flexible housing solution during periods of high demand.”
He added: “However, the growing reliance on private rentals also highlights the ongoing imbalance between housing supply and demand. Increasing the delivery of social and affordable housing is the key to creating a more sustainable long-term solution, while ensuring vulnerable households have access to secure and suitable accommodation.”
Neale concluded: “Supporting landlords, maintaining strong partnerships with local authorities, and improving access to quality rental homes will remain crucial in helping to prevent homelessness and support communities nationwide.”
