But is as high as 52.9% more than last year in some parts of England
The average cost to landlords of rental void periods has risen by as much as 52.9% in some areas of England over the last year and by 12.9% overall. With an average void period of 24 days, this amounts to an estimated average void period cost of £1,135 between tenancies, according to research from Rushbrook & Rathbone.
Based on an average monthly rent of £1,438, the void period cost of £1,135 is up £129 from £1,005 in April 2025. However, the West Midlands has seen the largest annual increase, up by £307, or 52.9%, year on year.
The East Midlands has seen the second largest percentage increase at 26.2%, equivalent to an additional £171 per void period. Meanwhile, in the South West, void costs have risen 20.9%, up by £183, and in the East of England they have increased 18.7%, costing an additional £167.
Overall rental void costs are highest in London, with an average void cost of £1,252 despite a shorter average void period of 16.6 days. The South East ranks second at £1,065, followed closely by the South West (£1,060) and East of England (£1,059).
Rental income lost as important as income received
Rushbrook & Rathbone managing director Roma Sharma said the figures showed the importance of professional property management to reduce the length and frequency of void periods.
Sharma said: “Many landlords focus on the rent they achieve, but the rental income lost between tenancies is often just as important as the rent achieved during them. A void period doesn’t just mean a temporary loss of rental income, landlords are also still contending with mortgage payments, insurance costs, service charges, maintenance obligations and other outgoings whilst a property sits empty.
“As a result, even a relatively short void period can have a meaningful impact on overall returns, particularly at a time when landlords are facing increasing compliance requirements and investment costs across the sector.
“One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of void periods is through proactive management. Maintaining strong relationships with tenants can improve retention, whilst early planning, prompt maintenance and effective marketing can significantly reduce the time between one tenancy ending and the next beginning.
“In today’s market, protecting rental income is about more than achieving the highest rent possible. It’s also about minimising unnecessary gaps in occupation and ensuring properties remain attractive, compliant and ready for tenants at all times.”