The proportion of tenants forecasting rents to be higher one year out outnumber those expecting to be paying less by 13 to 1, according to Rightmove’s latest Consumer Confidence Survey.

It is at its highest level since the survey began in January 2009.

The 53% predicting upwards movement has jumped from 42% in the previous quarter, and now outnumbers the 4% predicting lower rents in their area by 13 to 1. The proportion of those expecting rental price levels to be stable has consequently fallen to 37%, down from 45% in the previous survey.

Available rental stock advertised on Rightmove on a national level is down 18% compared to a year ago, with the most acutely affected regions being London and East Anglia where stock levels are down 24% and 19% respectively.

Miles Shipside, director of Rightmove, said: “Letting agents in many areas are reporting an insatiable demand