OAP renters at new high

THE number of pensioners living in rented homes has reached record levels.

OAPs make up almost 8% of renters, compared with 5% 10 years ago.

And more than half – 53% – of tenant pensioners live alone, often in smaller homes, according to the study by Countrywide.

Johnny Morris, of the lettings firm, said: “The rental market can no longer be typified by the image of carefree, young professionals. More than half of tenants are over 30.”