Families spending half their money on rent in Richmond (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Families spending half their money on rent in Richmond

2:06pm Wednesday 9th January 2013 in News By Clare Buchanan

Families are spending more than half their wages on rent to live in Richmond, according to a housing and homelessness charity.

Government figures analysed by Shelter show that average private rents in Richmond now eat up 52 per cent of average family earnings.

The charity said in 23 of London’s 32 boroughs typical private rents took up more than 50 per cent of family incomes, rising from 19 boroughs last year.

The news came as London Mayor Boris Johnson launched a public consultation asking residents to tell him how to improve the capital’s rental market, which Shelter urged people to take part in.

Campbell Robb, chief executive of Shelter, said: "The news that renting in the capital is unaffordable isn’t a surprise to the Richmond families who are stuck in the rent trap, unable to save anything towards a home of their own because they’re paying out so much each month in rent.

“But the fact that rental costs in most areas of London are eating up more than half of family incomes should stop us in our tracks. 

“Rising rents, the constant threat of eviction, and hidden fees are all par for the course in London’s frantic rental market.

“With the census revealing that a quarter of Londoners now rent their homes, it’s vital that they take this opportunity to make their voices heard.

“Boris Johnson has shown he’s listening to what renters have to say. This is our chance to redesign renting for a city which deserves a better deal." 

To view and take part in the consultation visit lrs.homesforlondon.org.uk/tell-boris.