In 2024–2025, 143,710 households in England had their homelessness prevention duties ended after securing new accommodation, according to official statistics from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, now part of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
Just over half of these households, 51.9%, obtained accommodation likely to last for at least six months. Many of these placements were in the private rented sector.
Homelessness prevention duties require local authorities to take reasonable steps to help households threatened with homelessness within 56 days avoid becoming homeless. These duties end when suitable accommodation is secured, preventing households from progressing to more intensive relief or main duties.
New analysis of government data by property portal Emoov points to increasing reliance on the private rented sector. Since 2021–2022, there has been a 13.76% increase in self-contained private accommodation secured under prevention duties, reflecting limited social housing supply and sustained demand pressures on councils.
Official figures show the number of households securing private rented accommodation under prevention duties has risen in recent years. In 2020–2021, 28,590 households secured private sector rented accommodation, including 24,660 in self-contained homes, 3,230 in HMOs and 700 in lodging arrangements. In 2021–2022, the total stood at 26,470, comprising 22,960 self-contained properties, 2,980 HMOs and 520 lodgings. The figure increased to 27,340 in 2022–2023, including 24,150 self-contained homes, 2,570 HMOs and 610 lodgings. In 2023–2024, 29,060 households secured private rented accommodation, of which 25,210 were self-contained, 3,200 were HMOs and 650 were lodgings. By 2024–2025, the total had risen to 30,240, including 26,120 self-contained homes, 3,590 HMOs and 530 lodgings.
Nick Neale from Emoov said: “The private rented sector is continuing to play a vital role in supporting households at risk of homelessness across England. For many local authorities, working with responsible landlords provides an essential and flexible housing solution during periods of high demand.”
“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 added: “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.”
Nick Neale outlined key actions for tenants seeking to avoid temporary homelessness in England. Neale advised speaking to landlords as early as possible, saying: “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.”
Nick Neale also urged tenants to contact their 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,” Neale said.
Tenants were encouraged to check what financial help may be 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,” Neale explained.
Neale further advised keeping important tenancy and identification documents safe. “Having paperwork ready, such as tenancy agreements, proof of income, and identification, can speed up support from councils, letting agents, and landlords,” Neale said.
Neale added that tenants should remain 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.”
Seeking advice from housing organisations was also recommended. “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,” Neale said.
Finally, Neale cautioned against leaving a property without first seeking guidance. “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 data reflects wider pressures in England’s housing market, including record levels of temporary accommodation use and continued calls for increased social housing supply to reduce long-term dependence on private rentals for prevention efforts.
This article is based on verified government statistics for 2024–2025 and Emoov’s analysis of those figures.