Estate agents have called for landlords who advertise sex for rent to be banned from the PRS for life.

In its response to the government's consultation into the practice, industry body Propertymark insists these landlords should be kicked out as well as dealt with under the Sexual Offences Act, through criminal proceedings, in order to eliminate the 'abhorrent' practice.

Propertymark suggests giving local authorities enough resources to ensure standards are high across the board in the PRS, as well as making sure there is a referral route for them to report suspected cases to the police and relevant authorities.

It also wants the government to tackle online platforms that are used to advertise these arrangements and to give them the same requirements to meet as online property platforms.

It adds that the police and other authorities should share information with letting agents and landlords on spotting the signs and how to report it.

Sex for rent

Propertymark believes that the small number of landlords who engage in sex for rent are likely to engage in other criminal acts such as prostitution, human trafficking, and drugs.

They are also extremely unlikely to provide the high standards expected of landlords within the PRS such as complying with legislation and health and safety requirements.

It adds that criminals are likely to pick on those most marginalised and vulnerable in society including sex workers, the low waged and people from overseas or at high risk of homelessness.

The government consultation ends on 30th June.

Read more about the prosecution of 'sex for rent' landlords.