According to a report published by Zoopla last month, demand for rented homes is 10% higher on average than this time last year, while a third fewer homes are available for rent.

“Low supply exacerbates rental growth,” Richard Donnell, Zoopla’s executive director of research, said. “In local areas where rents for new lets have jumped the most, there is a risk that rents may over-shoot sustainable levels.”

It’s certainly a difficult, stress-inducing time to be a renter, which is why it’s so important to make sure you are aware of your rights as a tenant. Your landlord can only increase your rent during the fixed term of a tenancy agreement if that contract includes a rent review clause. Make sure you’ve checked your contract thoroughly, and contact organisations like Citizens Advice or Shelter if you’re in need of free, impartial advice.

A new report reveals London rents are rising at the fastest rate in more than a decade