Landlords who are concerned about losing tenants can sign up to a rent guarantee scheme, which will pay out if the tenant breaks the contract.

These schemes are typically offered by companies that provide tenant reference services for estate agents, such as Keysafe, Homelet and Experian. They charge a six-monthly or annual premium relative to the rent on the property. Keysafe, for example, charges £75 for six months or £120 for a year to cover up to £10,000 in lost rent and legal fees.