Two thirds of private renters are unaware that their local authority can help them when they experience problems with a landlord, letting agent or home, a new report by Generation Rent finds today.

The campaign group’s new study is aimed at raising awareness among renters of the Government’s plans to introduce a property portal and improve enforcement powers for councils.

Half of private renters (49%) have experienced damp and mould in their rental property, but just 21% have received a Government guidance booklet from their landlord outlining the support renters are entitled to from their council.

Last week’s Renters Reform White Paper sets out plans to require landlords to join a property portal which should allow tenants to check their compliance, and new powers for councils to enforce new decent homes standards in private rented homes.

Generation Rent found that in total 69% of private renters were unaware that the local authority could help them with certain problems with their landlord, letting agent or home.

Alicia Kennedy, director of Generation Rent, said: ‘Private renters are at a greater risk of living in an unsafe home than any other tenure, and they are least likely to understand their rights and who can help them deal with problems.

‘The Government has proposed the introduction of a new portal to inform tenants, as well as new powers to raise standards. Local authorities will continue to play a critical role, but to make best use of these new tools, our Private Tenant Engagement Charter will help them better understand of renters who live locally.

‘The pioneering councils we have worked with have helped shed light on a huge section of their residents who don’t get enough attention, and we’ve found that wherever you are in the country the same problems persist. Every council can improve private renters’ lives by taking just a few steps to make them more visible and make sure they are listened to.’