Age UK is calling for more support for those on old-style tenancies as the renting population looks set to get older.

The charity warns that increasing numbers of over-65s are set to enter the rental sector due to the decline in home ownership and uses a new report to highlight how older renters are currently treated.

Older tenants have reported experiences of failures to fix heating or adapt the property with ramps or handrails. Many have also reported being harassed or forced to leave because their landlord wants to sell.

The report, Ageing in squalor and distress, warns that while over-65s make up just 8.5% of the rental market, a third could be in rental accommodation by 2040. Therefore, the report urges action to be taken now to protect older renters in the future.

One of the big factors highlighted in the report is that current older tenants who began renting before 15 January 1989 are likely to be “regulated” tenants so can register for fair rent and have greater protection from eviction than those in modern day assured shorthold tenants.

But at the same time, Age UK warns, this means landlords may be less inclined to maintain the property if they are getting little return.

The charity said: “Landlords may have little interest in maintaining a property let at such a low rent or may wish to gain vacant possession in order to re-let the property on less secure and more financially advantageous (to them) terms.”

The charity wants more to be done for current renters such as making clear their housing options and improving tenancy agreements to protect those in the future: “Some older private renters enjoy a very positive experience, due in large part to the commitment and decency of their landlord. But others are clearly not so fortunate.

“For the sake of those in this position today and for the sake of the projected increased numbers of older private renters in future, we need firm and effective reform of the law, policy and practice in the private rented sector. And if we can get things right for older private tenants, younger private tenants will surely benefit too.”

The report highlights issues with both landlords and lettings agents.

One worrying case study in the report tells the story of Christina and her daughter Kim who say they have been made ill by the poor condition of the property. Christina has lived in the property for 54 years and says there is a broken boiler, damp, and a leaking tap that causes flooding: “The letting agent has been informed of the need for repairs but the landlord has taken no action. Kim is not sure if the agent has explained the full extent of disrepair to the landlord. Kim thinks the landlord and agent are waiting for Christina to die before they will do anything to improve the property,” the report says.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director of Age UK, said: “The law is far too feeble and the withering away of local environmental health services is making the problem worse.

“As it is, the bottom end of the private rented sector is no place for a vulnerable older person, but if that is what we believe as a society we need to do something about it and create better alternatives. Our first and immediate priority though should be to improve the appalling plight of older tenants.”

Responding to the report, David Cox, managing director of ARLA, told EYE: “It’s really unfortunate when these types of situations occur, and it’s totally unacceptable for people to be living in these conditions.

“However, it’s important to note that the vast majority of privately rented properties are well maintained and properly managed.

“For peace of mind, you should always use an ARLA licensed agent. All ARLA licensed agents adhere to a strict code of conduct which ensures your money is protected and you receive the upmost professional standards.”