A survey claims 25 per cent of tenants are already at least a month behind in their rent.

Of those private tenants in arrears, over a fifth are concerned at their ability to catch up by around the end of the year. A similar proportion are worried about their overall financial position being worsened by the Coronavirus crisis.

The survey is very small – only 200 renters, including an unspecified number in the social sector. 

Most of those who have fallen behind have found their landlord sympathetic and flexible, according to the survey, conducted by IT company PayPoint.

“Our survey reveals real concerns over future financial stability and ability to pay rent. It is vital that both private and social landlords are sympathetic to the challenges their tenants are facing in these uncertain times” says a spokesman for the company.