Could DIY suffer as more people rent?

As increasing numbers of people are choosing to rent their home rather than climbing the property ladder, the DIY industry may suffer, it has been asserted.

Ratedpeople.com claims more Britons are now choosing to rent property rather than buy it, fuelled in part by the likelihood that house prices are set to rise sharply.

The group suggests many homeowners may find such increases are being priced out when it comes to being able to buy a new house.

As a result, renting is becoming the "only viable" option for many individuals in order to allow them to save and later invest in a home of their own.

Andrew Skipwith, founder and chief executive officer of Ratedpeople.com, said: "The situation with regard to rented properties has meant that the scope for homeowners to engage in DIY activity is very limited, unless they are lucky enough to have a lenient and trustful landlord."

Britons looking for flats to rent in Blackheath or another part of London who wish to put their own stamp on their new home may wish to ask their landlord if they will be able to do some decorating.

Indeed, Aspect Maintenance recently revealed 70 per cent of people living in London plan to carry out home improvements over the next year.

Written by Charles Mackay

Published 10th February, 2010

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