Research from the National Landlords Association (NLA) has revealed that nearly a quarter (24%) of UK landlords – approximately 360,000 – came into the market accidentally or unintentionally.

The findings from the survey, which asked landlords why they first entered the buy to let (BTL) market, showed that; 11% were by chance, (e.g. through inheriting property); 5% acquired an extra property, (e.g. when they met a spouse); 5% intended to sell but experienced difficulties; and 3% had to relocate for work, (either home or abroad).

Central London was found to have the highest proportion (31%) of accidental landlords. This is closely followed by Wales (29%) and then the East of England and Yorkshire, both with 27%. The North West had the least with just 15% claiming to have got into the business unintentionally.

However, the research also shows that three in 10 landlords (30%) with a single property only breakeven or make a loss.

Carolyn Uphill, chairman of the NLA, said: “It may be surprising to find that so many single-property landlords struggle to make it work, but we often find that this is because so many simply don’t realise what they’re getting themselves into.”