A spokesperson for Generation Rent emphasized the need for protections against unexpected rent hikes, advocating that increases should be capped to inflation or wage growth.

Bridget Chapman, a 56-year-old single mother from Darlington, County Durham, is advocating for rent controls after her landlord raised her rent by 20%, equating to an increase of £100 with just a month's notice.

Chapman expressed her frustration at receiving only a month's notice for this rent increase, which significantly impacts her already low disposable income.

As a single parent supporting her adult children, Chapman highlighted the financial strain caused by rising rents and increasing utility costs.

While Chapman supports the Renters’ Rights Bill currently in Parliament, she argues it does not adequately protect tenants from sudden rent increases like the one she is facing.

The Renters’ Rights Bill aims to empower tenants and tackle unreasonable rent increases, but Chapman feels it falls short in providing immediate relief.

A survey by Generation Rent revealed that 61% of renters experienced rent increases in the past year, with 24% facing hikes of over £100.

Having lived in her current rental property for eight years, Chapman now feels her security is at risk due to the recent rent increase.

Chapman has previously dealt with severe dampness in her former rental home, which exacerbated her asthma and led to a hospitalization for pneumonia.

Generation Rent claims that most landlords increase rent not due to rising costs but to enhance their revenue, with 31% citing higher market rents as the reason.

In response to her situation, Chapman started a petition for rent caps, which has garnered over 45,000 signatures, as she feels it is her only recourse.

Chapman argues that rising costs, including utilities, alongside stagnant wages, are forcing people into food banks despite working full-time jobs.