The BBC is calling for landlords to take part in a survey to find out what they believe is causing the dire rental market housing stock shortage.

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However rather than contacting landlord bodies the Beeb, as part of its PRS investigation, turned to an agents association to be a ‘partner’.

A statement from the agent’s body says: “With the UK government’s Renters’ Reforms White Paper looming, the consultation on A New Deal for Tenants in Scotland and legislation coming into force including the Renting Homes (Wales) Act and the Private Tenancies Bill in Northern Ireland it seems no landlord or agent is safe from the heat.”

A spokesperson for the organisation comments: “Through our contacts we have been offered the opportunity to put this issue onto a national platform and present our side of the story.

“The housing system needs a balance of tenures, and the value the private rented sector brings must not be underestimated. Landlords provide much needed homes and the country cannot afford to lose them.

“We have an immense opportunity to get some solid evidence in front of decision makers and huge media outlets.”

The association says that the survey is open to the entire whole sector and claims it will provide substantial information for discussions with politicians and governments and politicians when lobbying on behalf of the sector against damaging proposals and will also be available when contacting the media.

Richard Merrick of PIMS, says:” The BBC should be contacting landlords who have bought the properties themselves to get their views from those at the coal face having to fund property upgrades to meet current and incoming legislation.